The tenancy agreement
The tenancy agreement is the document that you sign at the beginning of your tenancy. It gives the details of the contract between you and Hackney Council. This section is only a summary.
Your questions answered
What if I break the tenancy agreement?
The tenancy agreement is the legal contract between you and the Council. By signing it you agree to the Conditions of Tenancy that are set out in the Agreement. These are the rights and responsibilities that you, and the Council and Hackney Homes must keep to. If you break the agreement we will discuss with you how you can correct the situation. If the problem is not resolved, we may take court action. See Your tenancy.
Can we be joint tenants?
We normally offer a joint tenancy to existing partners but you can ask for any other adult living with you to become a joint tenant with you. They have joint responsibility for paying the rent and keeping to the terms of the Tenancy Agreement. See Household changes.
What if the Council or Hackney Homes fail to carry out the Council's duties?
You are welcome to approach any member of staff about a complaint. In most cases problems are resolved quickly and efficiently following an informal discussion. However, if matters are not resolved you should follow our formal complaints procedure. See Complaints.
Can I be made to leave my home?
Yes, but only if your tenancy has come to an end or if you do not keep to the terms of your tenancy agreement by, for example, not paying your rent or causing nuisance to neighbours. Only a court can order you to leave. We will always follow a clear procedure if we have to take formal action. See Breach of tenancy in Your tenancy.
Our main responsibilities are to:
- consult you on any proposed changes to the tenancy
- keep your home wind and water tight and in good repair
- keep all pipes, drains, gutters and installations for heating, water, gas or electricity supply in working order.
We have the right to:
- change your rent or other charges provided we tell you the new charge at least 4 weeks before it is due
- be let into your home to carry out inspections or repairs, or to service appliances, or to carry out improvements. We must give you at least 24 hours warning unless it is an emergency
- keep an up-to-date photograph of you on your records.
Your main responsibilities are to:
- live in the home as your main and only home
- pay the rent and other charges on time
- take care of the property and do any repairs you are responsible for
- ensure that everyone in your household, including children and visitors, behave responsibly. They must not cause nuisance to neighbours (eg noise) or harass or threaten other people, including our staff. This includes racial harassment
- get our written permission to make any alterations, improvements or additions to your home
- not overcrowd the property
- let us know at least 4 weeks before you leave if you intend to end your tenancy.
You have the right to:
- live peacefully in your home without being unnecessarily interrupted by us, your landlord
- appeal against decisions we make that you don't agree with.
