The Localism Act created a new type of tenancy that can be used by local authority and registered social landlords, called a flexible tenancy. The provisions creating flexible tenancies came into force on 1st April 2012. A flexible tenancy is a form of secure tenancy and generally, tenants with a flexible tenancy have the same rights as other secure tenants (as set out in the Housing Act 1985), including the Right to Buy after a qualifying period, and the Right to Repair.
This more flexible model may be of some assistance in making the best use of properties and helping reduce waiting lists a little. However, new flexible tenancies may also adversely affect the stability of communities. Councils will also be required to work with social landlords to produce a tenancy strategy. At this level it is hoped that partnership working between local authorities and housing associations will ensure that housing options and requirements are fully understood by local residents.
