Joint Assured Shorthold Tenancy(JAST)

Joint Assured Shorthold Tenancy (JAST) is a type of tenancy agreement in the UK housing sector. It is a legal agreement between a landlord and two or more tenants that outlines the responsibilities of each party. The purpose of JAST is to provide security of tenure to tenants and to encourage landlords to provide good quality housing. JAST is a form of assured tenancy, meaning that it carries greater security of tenure than a standard shorthold tenancy. The scope of JAST includes a fixed term (usually six months or more) and a right to occupy the property for that period. Tenants are also protected from eviction during the term of the tenancy, unless the landlord is able to prove they have a legal right to do so. JAST also sets out the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, including the payment of rent, the maintenance of the property and the collection of deposits.