What is a periodic tenancy?

A periodic tenancy rolls automatically from one rent period to the next — typically month to month — with no fixed end date. Before the Renters' Rights Act 2025, periodic tenancies usually arose when a fixed-term ended and the tenant stayed on. Since 1 May 2026, all new tenancies start as periodic and existing fixed terms convert to periodic automatically.

My fixed-term tenancy hasn't ended yet. What happens?

If your fixed term expires on or after 1 May 2026, it converts to a periodic tenancy on the expiry date. It does not end automatically — you do not need to sign a new tenancy agreement. You and your landlord simply carry on under the same terms, now on a rolling periodic basis.

Can my landlord make me sign a new tenancy agreement?

No. The conversion from fixed-term to periodic happens automatically by law. Your landlord cannot force you to sign a new agreement as a condition of staying. If they ask you to sign a new agreement, you should seek advice — the new agreement could contain terms less favourable than your existing ones.

How much notice does my landlord need to give me to leave?

Your landlord cannot ask you to leave without a legal ground under Section 8 and a court order. There is no longer a concept of giving 'notice to quit' at the end of a fixed term, because fixed terms no longer exist. The minimum notice periods depend on the ground being relied on — from 4 weeks for rent arrears (Grounds 8/10/11) to 4 months for sale or move-in (Grounds 1/1A) under the Renters' Rights Act 2025.

How much notice do I need to give to leave?

Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, tenants can give notice to end a periodic tenancy with 2 months' written notice. You do not need a reason. This is your right — you can leave at any time with 2 months' notice.

Does my landlord still need to protect my deposit?

Yes. Deposit protection rules are unchanged. Your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt, and you must be given the prescribed information about the scheme. A failure to protect can give rise to a separate civil claim for 1–3× the deposit amount under the Housing Act 2004 — it does not automatically invalidate a Section 8 notice.

Fixed-term tenancies are abolished. All tenancies are now periodic.

Since 1 May 2026, all tenancies in England are periodic under the Renters' Rights Act 2025. Fixed-terms are gone. What changes, what stays the same.

Fixed term vs periodic — the key differences.

Fixed-term tenancy (abolished)

Periodic tenancy (now universal)

Landlord asking you to sign a new agreement?

You do not need to. Your tenancy converts automatically by law. A new agreement could contain worse terms. Take advice before signing anything, and never sign an agreement that reinstates a fixed term — those clauses are now void.

Who can give notice — and how.

If you want to leave

You can end your periodic tenancy at any time by giving 2 months’ written notice to your landlord. You do not need a reason. The notice should state clearly that you intend to vacate and the date by which you will leave.

Tip: send notice by email and keep a copy, or post it by tracked post and keep proof of delivery.

If your landlord wants you to leave

Your landlord must serve a Section 8 notice citing a legal ground, wait for the notice period to expire, then apply to the county court. The court must be satisfied the ground is made out before granting a possession order. You can defend the claim.

Facing eviction from your periodic tenancy?

Your landlord needs a court order. Start My Claim checks your section 8 notice, identifies defences, and prepares your written response. Fixed fee £229.

Periodic tenancy — FAQ

If your landlord failed to protect your deposit, you may be entitled to claim 1–3× the deposit amount as a statutory penalty.

See the deposit disputes guide →

Sources: Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (c.26), ss.1–5 · Housing Act 1988, ss.5, 21 (repealed) · Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 · MHCLG: The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026

Not legal advice. Start My Claim is document-assembly software, not a law firm. This guide is general information only — for advice on your situation, consult a qualified housing solicitor, Shelter, or Citizens Advice.