Student renters want break clauses automatically included in tenancy agreements to protect them financially in the event of a second wave of Coronavirus.

That’s the result of a new survey conducted by websites Money Magpie and Save The Student.

The break clause would lapse the rental contract, meaning students required to return home if their university was to close would not be liable for any remaining rent under the tenancy agreement, and landlords would be able to re-let the property – if they could.

Before the summer there was a spate of claims made that tenants were being charged for accommodation they left vacant after returning home when universities and colleges closed as part of the UK lockdown.

Commenting on the findings a paralegal at Nelsons law practice – Paula Haverkamp – says: “If the [AST] contract contains a break clause and notice is served in accordance with one, the student’s obligation to pay for the full term of the tenancy will fall away. In other words, this will allow for early termination of the tenancy.

“Usually a break clause will not take effect unless the student has been in occupation for a minimum of six months. However, this may differ from contract to contract. A student can ask for a break clause to be inserted and caveat it in relation to a second wave of Covid-19, but a landlord does not have to agree.

“If a student is in university-owned accommodation, they will need to seek advice from their university in relation to a second wave. However, for students who rent privately as set out above, any agreement entered into is a binding contract. Students will need to negotiate with the landlord if they wished to end the contract early.”

She adds that if a student vacates early and refuses to pay rent due to Covid-19, a landlord is entitled to bring a claim for non-payment of rent. 

“When renting to students, most landlords will insist there is a guarantor. If this is the case and the student does not pay the rent, the guarantor will also be liable for the rent. If the landlord issues court proceedings and obtains a judgment for the arrears, and the judgment is not satisfied within 30 days, the student and their guarantor will have a county court judgment against them.”

Haverkemp says that some tenancy agreements contain a ‘force majeure’ clause, which dictates what will happen in the event that either party cannot perform their obligations under the contract due to circumstances out of their control. While Covid-19 may be a force majeure event, it is unlikely to stop a tenancy from continuing, she believes.

“If tenants are unable to pay their rent due to Covid-19 disruption, they need to speak with the landlord immediately. If they are working and are on a reduced wage, they will need to evidence this to the landlord, who may agree to a reduction in the rent. Tenants will need to remember that if a reduction is agreed, the shortfall will need to be made up for the remaining months.

“It is worth noting that the government has not introduced specific financial help in relation to Covid-19. Any students who are struggling to pay their rent must contact the university, halls of residence manager, private landlord or letting agent to discuss the matter with them, and to try to reach an agreement.”