Private rental contracts, how long are they usually for?

[Monr0e]

Just looking for some information really. We are looking to put our house on the market very soon with a view to moving into catchment for secondary school for DD. But at present there are very little properties that meet our needs so DH has suggested selling and renting initially until something we like comes on the market.

I have just spoken to the school and been informed that if you are renting they require proof of rental contract for a minimum of 2 years. We have never private rented before. Before buying we were in a housing association property so I have no idea how this works but I thought private rental contracts tended to be shorter?

Has anyone been in this situation before? How long are contracts usually for and can you get them for 2 years? Thank you

When I previously rented, I would never have taken a 2 year contract - it's just too much commitment - on both sides. I presume you can get them, but I wonder if the school state this, to stop people renting locally and then after 6 months moving back to their own homes. In theory if you rent during application - up until the April of intake- the parents could be back in their own homes by the time the child actually starts school.
I own a rental property and our contract is for 12 months with a get out after 6 months - our tenants are now on a rolling contract.

I thought it was an extremely long time!

School said as well as proof of 2 year contract they would also want to see proof of the previous home no longer being owned. We would be selling so could provide this but I think the 2 year contract would be a challenge. Even if we could get one, we don't necessarily want to rent for 2 years
We want to be free to buy if the right property becomes available. Still within catchment though!

You'll never get a 2 year contract! 12 months is the longest most letting agents do.

The contract is 6months and 12 months

That sounds like the schools way of saying you left it too late to move.

I’ve just let a flat out in London for 18 months lease. It suited me and the tenants (who have been posted here from abroad). But normally it’s six months to 12 with get out clause after six.

I thought 6 months maybe 12 months max

How on earth do private renters apply then? Even people who have lived in catchment for years but rent privately wont have 2 year contracts

A year with a six month break clause is usual. They get renewed on a yearly basis.
I'm not seeing how this rule is enforceable, what do they expect dc to do for two years while living in their area?
What happens if they move from the other side of the country? No school for two years?