Written notice

If you want to end your tenancy, you must give us written notice.  You can download a termination form here or pick one up from your local property shop.  Ask for help if you need any assistance. You will normally have to give four weeks notice to end your tenancy.  Ask staff for guidance on this issue.

	Download a termination form
	Contact your local Property Shop

Inspecting your property

Before you leave, we will inspect your property. We will advise you of any damage to your property that will need to be put right before you leave, or any alterations carried out with or without permission which you will need to reinstate. If you do not carry out the works we tell you about and Ashfield Homes has to carry out these works when your property is empty you will be held responsible for the costs. Please see section on recharges below.

Before you leave

Before leaving you should make sure that:

• Your home is left in a clean and tidy state with no damage;
• No belongings or rubbish are left in the house or garden including lofts and outbuildings;
• You have let the utility companies(gas, water, electric) know you are moving;
• You have advised the Council’s Revenues section (Council Tax/Housing Benefit) and the Department of Work and Pensions (if applicable) of your move & of your forwarding address;
• You have arranged with the Post Office to have your mail redirected;  
• You have cleared your rent account, or have arranged a repayment plan with our Rent Liason Advisor.

Your property must be vacant with no one left in occupation.

Handing in the Keys

Keys can be handed in to any Property Shop.  You will be required to give us a forwarding address.  The keys should be handed in before 12.00 noon on the Monday that your four week notice period expires. Failure to do so may result in you being charged a further weeks rent. Please return all the keys or we will have to change the locks, and the cost charged to you.

Recharges

You will be recharged for any damage that has been caused to your property.  You will be recharged for any rubbish or unwanted belongings you leave behind and have to be removed by Ashfield Homes.  If you have carried out alterations without permission and the property has to be reinstated, you will also be recharged for these works.

If you re-apply for Council housing within Ashfield, you will not normally be considered or receive any offers of accomodation until you have demonstrated a commitment to paying off these costs.