Friend moving out

[loobie]

Does anyone know where I stand. My friend and I started renting a property back in March. The contract is a 6 month one and then on the basis of every month. She has decided that she wants to move out in September when the first 6 months are up. Both our names are on the contract, we both signed the one contract. I don't wish to move out but does anyone know where I stand in terms of me staying and getting another flatmate? If when she hands her notice in, she is actually handing it in for both of us? I'm a bit confused and a bit worried!!

Any help would be great.

Thanks :)

[MWB]

What country are you in, loobie?

[loobie]

The UK

[MWB]

Ok. It's just that I knew a girl years ago who had the nickname, loobie.

But that was in NZ.

[ummmm]

Have a word with the landlord. It's not like a mortgage and is very simple to draw up a new contract.

Can you afford it on your own?

Do you know anyone who wants to share?

[loobie]

I can't afford it on my own and don't as yet have anyone lined up but would find someone in time (hopefully). It's all done through the estate agents and a colleague said that they can be tricky which is why I got a bit worried.

[Barmaid]

Situation is this:> you have an assured shorthold tenancy for an initial period of 6 months. Both of you are jointly and severally liable for payment of the rent in that time. As long as your housemate fulfils her obligations for the first 6 months she is in the clear.

Once the "holding over" period commences and she leaves, you are responsible for the full rent (assuming she gives appropriate notice to the landlord). In reality, once she gives notice, the landlord will probably ask you to sign a new 6 months contract on your own (thus tying you in). You either need to move out in September or find someone else.

Why didn;t you just PM me?!

[loobie]

Didn;t think you did property law hun!!!

But thanks...that makes it a lot clearer!! I'll stop panicking quite so much and get hunting for someone!!

[geno500]

Hi Don,t panic the advice you have had is good they will ask you to take on another 6 months contract the good news is that landlords are desperate for tenants just remember that estate agents are not your friends do not tell them anything, try to take the rent down don,t be scared as well as looking for somebody to join you look at other places to rent,drive a hard bargain look to take off at least 10% maybe 15% of the rent