Introductory tenancies
New tenancy
If you are a new tenant, you start off with an introductory tenancy. This means that your first year with the council is a trial period. You will need to show us that you understand your responsibilities to your neighbours and to your landlord.
We will expect you to:
- pay your rent on time and not allow your rent account to fall into arrears
- make sure that you, anyone living with you, or anyone who visits you, do not cause a nuisance to your neighbours or the local community
- look after your home, including any outside spaces which are your responsibility, such as balconies and gardens, and generally meet all the conditions of your tenancy.
Rights and responsibilities of an introductory tenant
We will make regular checks, including looking at your rent account every week and visiting you at home from time to time. Please make sure you tell us if you are having problems, as we can offer practical help and advice.
While you are an introductory tenant you do not have the right to:
- move to another council or housing association home
- take in a lodger
- sub-let part of your home
- carry out alterations or improvements to your home, except painting and decorating
- buy your home
However, your family may have succession rights to your tenancy if you die. You will get full rights automatically as soon as you become a secure tenant.
Introductory tenants have an extra responsibility secure tenant do not have. You must ask us for permission if you want someone who was not listed as a member of your household when you signed your tenancy agreement to stay with you, either temporarily or permanently. This includes children, relatives, friends or other guests. We will not normally refuse unless there is a good reason.
Eviction and extension of introductory tenancy
As an introductory tenant you can be evicted more quickly than a secure tenant. However, if you show us that you can act responsibly and meet the conditions of your tenancy agreement, you will automatically become a secure tenant after 12 months.
We have discretion to extend your introductory tenancy for a further six months if we feel we need to monitor your behaviour more before your tenancy becomes secure. We will give you notice if we are intending to do this, along with our reasons.