As the world becomes more and more digital, it`s no surprise that certain aspects of life are moving online. One such area is the process of renting a property, and specifically, the creation of an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement (AST).
An AST is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of a rental agreement for a property. It`s the most common type of tenancy agreement in the UK and is used for most private rental properties. It outlines key details such as the length of the tenancy, the amount of rent to be paid, the responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant, and any other relevant specifics.
Traditionally, ASTs were created in paper form, with both the landlord and tenant signing the agreement. However, with the rise of digital technology and the internet, it`s becoming more common for these agreements to be created online.
There are many benefits to using an online service to create an AST. Firstly, it saves time. The process of creating an AST can be time-consuming, especially if you have to meet with the landlord in person to sign the document. By doing it online, you can complete the entire process from the comfort of your own home at a time that suits you.
Secondly, it`s convenient. When creating an AST online, you`ll typically be guided through the process step-by-step, ensuring that you don`t miss any important details. Plus, you can save a copy of the document to your computer or cloud storage, meaning you can access it again at any time.
Thirdly, it`s cost-effective. Some online services offer AST creation for free, whilst others charge a small fee. Either way, it`s likely to be cheaper than having to hire a lawyer or attend a face-to-face meeting with the landlord.
But what about the legal validity of an online AST? The good news is that an online AST is just as legally binding as a paper one. It must still contain all the relevant information and be signed by both parties. However, it`s worth noting that some landlords may still prefer a paper copy of the agreement, so it`s always best to check with them before proceeding with an online service.
Overall, using an online service to create an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement is a convenient, time-saving and cost-effective option for landlords and tenants alike. Just be sure to choose a reputable service and follow all the necessary steps to ensure that your agreement is legally binding.