12-03-2010

    Introductory tenancies

    An introductory tenancy’ agreement means that you can stay in your home for as long as you like, as long as you are a good tenant and neighbour.
    While you have an introductory tenancy, you cannot
    • buy your home;
    • take in lodgers or sub-let part of your home;
    • make major improvements to your home;
    • swap your home with someone else.
    If we think that you have not been a good tenant and neighbour, we will give you written notice to tell you that we are going to evict you and explain the reasons why to you. We can take you to court and if we do, the courts are likely to agree to the eviction. The notice will also tell you, that you have a right to request a review of our decision.
    If Hackney Homes decides to take me to court, can I appeal?
    If you think we are evicting you unfairly, you can ask for an independent review. You must do this within 14days after we tell you that you will be evicted.
    A special panel of Hackney Homes’ officers will hear your case. They will look at the facts and decide if the request for an eviction should go ahead. You can have a friend, advisor or legal representative to speak for you, if you wish.
    What happens after 12 months with an introductory tenancy?
    If you can show that you have been a good tenant and neighbour during the 12 months trial period, you will automatically become a secure tenant with full legal rights. These rights are described in the Tenants Handbook