Periodic Tenancies
What Is a Periodic Tenancy?
One of the biggest changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act is the move to periodic tenancies.
Previously, most private renters signed a fixed-term assured shorthold tenancy (AST), often lasting six or twelve months. At the end of the fixed term, the tenancy might continue on a periodic basis or a new fixed-term agreement would be signed.
Under the new system, assured tenancies are generally periodic from the start, meaning they continue until either the tenant or landlord ends the tenancy by following the correct legal process.
This gives tenants greater flexibility while also removing the uncertainty that often came with fixed-term renewals.
What's Changed Under the Renters' Rights Act?
The Renters’ Rights Act removed the assured shorthold tenancy system that had existed for many years.
Instead of signing repeated fixed-term agreements, most private renters now have a periodic tenancy that continues until it is legally ended.
This means:
- your tenancy doesn’t automatically expire after six or twelve months
- you don’t usually need to sign a renewal agreement each year
- your tenancy continues unless you or your landlord bring it to an end following the correct legal process
For many tenants, this provides greater security and removes the pressure of repeatedly negotiating new tenancy agreements.
How Do Periodic Tenancies Work?
A periodic tenancy doesn’t have a fixed end date.
Instead, it continues from one rental period to the next until it is ended correctly.
For example, if you pay your rent monthly, your tenancy will usually continue on a monthly basis.
You continue to have the same responsibilities as before, including:
- paying your rent on time
- looking after the property
- complying with your tenancy agreement
- allowing access where legally required, such as for agreed inspections or essential repairs
Likewise, your landlord must continue meeting their legal responsibilities, including carrying out repairs and complying with housing legislation.
Giving Notice as a Tenant
One of the biggest benefits of a periodic tenancy is that tenants no longer have to wait for a fixed term to end before deciding to move.
If you wish to end your tenancy, you’ll normally need to give the required notice to your landlord.
When giving notice, it’s important to:
- provide the correct amount of notice required by law
- give notice in writing where appropriate
- continue paying rent until your tenancy legally ends
- return the property in accordance with your tenancy agreement
Before serving notice, read our Giving Notice guide for a step-by-step explanation of the process.
Can My Landlord End My Tenancy?
Yes.
Although Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions have been banned, landlords can still recover possession of their property where a legal Ground for Possession applies.
For example, a landlord may seek possession because:
- they intend to sell the property
- they or a close family member intend to move in
- the tenant has built up significant rent arrears
- the tenant has seriously breached the tenancy agreement
The landlord must follow the correct legal process and satisfy the relevant legal requirements before possession can be granted.
Learn more in our Grounds for Possession guide.
Common Misunderstandings
“I Can Leave Whenever I Want”
Not quite.
Although periodic tenancies offer greater flexibility, tenants must still give the correct legal notice before moving out.
“My Landlord Can’t Ask Me to Leave”
Incorrect.
Landlords can still recover possession where one of the legal Grounds for Possession applies.
“I’ll Have to Sign a New Tenancy Agreement Every Year”
Usually not.
Your tenancy continues automatically unless it’s legally ended.
“Everything Else About My Tenancy Has Changed”
No.
Most of the terms in your tenancy agreement remain the same unless they’ve been changed lawfully.
You must still pay your rent and comply with your tenancy obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Still Have a Fixed-Term Tenancy?
Most private tenancies are now periodic from the outset under the Renters’ Rights Act.
Can I Leave Before Twelve Months?
Periodic tenancies don’t have a fixed end date, but you must still give the correct notice before moving out.
Do I Need to Sign a New Contract Every Year?
Usually not.
Your tenancy continues automatically until it is legally ended.
Can My Landlord Increase My Rent?
Potentially, yes.
However, they must follow the legal process for rent increases.
Read our Rent Increases guide to learn more.
Does My Deposit Stay Protected?
Yes.
Your tenancy changing to a periodic tenancy doesn’t affect your landlord’s legal obligations regarding your tenancy deposit.
Key Takeaways
- Most private tenancies are now periodic rather than fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies.
- Your tenancy continues until it is legally ended.
- You can end your tenancy by giving the required notice.
- Landlords can still recover possession where a legal Ground for Possession applies.
- Most of your rights and responsibilities remain unchanged.
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