Free AST Tenancy Agreement Template (England & Wales – 2025)

A) UK landlords must use a compliant tenancy agreement when granting an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). This solicitor-structured template helps you set up a lawful tenancy without drafting from scratch.

B) Designed for private landlords and letting agents who need clear rent, deposit, possession and responsibility terms.

C) Suitable for use in:

• ✔ England
• ✔ Wales

D) Updated for the Housing Act 1988, Tenant Fees Act 2019, deposit protection rules, Right to Rent, EPC, gas safety and 2024–2025 guidance.

What the Free AST Template Covers

E) Core legally essential AST clauses, including:

• ✔ Landlord & tenant details + tenancy start date
• ✔ Property address and permitted occupiers
• ✔ AST statement under Housing Act 1988
• ✔ Fixed term and rent payment schedule
• ✔ Deposit scheme wording + prescribed information duty
• ✔ Utilities and council tax responsibility
• ✔ Tenant conduct and nuisance restrictions
• ✔ Repairs and reporting obligations
• ✔ Access and inspection rules (24 hours’ notice)
• ✔ Possession basics (Section 21 / Section 8)

Sample Clause Extracts

F) Deposit — The deposit must be protected in a Government-approved tenancy deposit scheme and prescribed information served within statutory time limits.

G) Rent — Rent is payable monthly in advance on the agreed date. Late payment may attract interest where permitted by law.

H) Access — The Landlord may enter the Property with at least 24 hours’ notice for inspections or repairs, except in emergencies.

I) Use — The Property must be used as a private residence only by the named Tenant(s).

J) Ending the Tenancy — Possession may be sought in accordance with the Housing Act 1988 and subject to statutory requirements.

Download Free AST Tenancy Agreement

K) Editable PDF template. No login required.

Download Free AST Tenancy Agreement (PDF)

Prefer Auto-Customisation?

L) Generate a tailored tenancy agreement in minutes using AI:

1. Register free
2. Select £1 or £5 plan
3. AI builds the AST from your property and tenancy details

Launch AI Contract Builder

AI Lawyer – Landlord & Tenant Legal Agent

M) Instant guidance on AST issues including rent arrears, deposit disputes, repairs, notices and possession rules.

Open AI Lawyer — Landlord & Tenant

Speak to a Human Solicitor (Telelegal)

Tenancy Agreement FAQs – England & Wales

1. 1. Is a written tenancy agreement required?
   While not always mandatory, a written AST is strongly recommended to avoid disputes and prove agreed terms.
2. 2. Do I have to protect the deposit?
   Yes. Deposits must be protected in an approved scheme within 30 days and prescribed information served.
3. 3. Who pays council tax?
   Usually the tenant, unless the property is an HMO or otherwise agreed.
4. 4. Can rent be increased during the fixed term?
   Only if the contract allows it or the tenant agrees.
5. 5. Can the landlord enter whenever they want?
   No. Except in emergencies, at least 24 hours’ notice is required.
6. 6. What documents must be given to tenants?
   How to Rent guide, EPC, gas safety certificate and deposit information.
7. 7. Can I evict without a reason?
   Only by following lawful Section 21 or Section 8 procedures.

Who Should Use This Template?

N) Suitable for:

• ✔ Private landlords
• ✔ Letting agents
• ✔ Single-property rentals
• ✔ Flats and houses

Legal Information

O) This page provides general legal information only and does not constitute legal advice. Complex cases (for example eviction disputes or litigation) should be reviewed by a qualified housing solicitor.