An assured shorthold tenancy agreement is the schedule of  terms and conditions agreed between a property owner and a person renting the property.

Landlords take deposits from tenants as insurance against breaching the tenancy agreement, like failing to pay rent, repairing damage and cleaning up when they move on.

Damp, condensation and mould is a common problem in many rental homes – especially older properties that lack ventilation.

Tenants are always moving out and leaving stuff behind – from bags of rubbish and odd socks to sofas and sun beds.

Landlords need to know the ins-and-outs of their rights to enter rental property once tenants have moved in to avoid claims of harassment.

Landlords can charge a tenant for damage to a rental property that goes beyond normal or fair wear and tear.

Tenant credit checks and references are vital tools for helping a landlord decide whether to take on tenants.