Periodic tenancies explained
Fixed-term assured tenancies are gone in England. Since 1 May 2026 they are periodic — no fixed term, no end date. Here is what that changes for rent increases and ending a tenancy.
What a periodic tenancy is
A periodic tenancy runs from period to period — typically month to month — with no fixed end date. Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, assured tenancies in England became periodic on 1 May 2026. There is no longer a fixed term that expires, which is closely tied to the abolition of section 21: there is no fixed end to rely on, so possession rests on a ground.
This is an England provision — Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland run their own separate systems.
Rent increases
On a periodic assured tenancy, rent may be increased once a year using the statutory process, with at least two months' notice of the new rent. The Act also restricts rental bidding and excessive advance rent. A tenant can challenge a proposed increase through the appropriate tribunal — so the statutory notice route, and the evidence behind the rent, matter.
Ending a periodic tenancy
Because there is no fixed term, the tenancy continues until it is properly ended: a tenant can end it by giving the required notice, and a landlord must use a ground for possession. The specific notice steps and any possession action are tenancy-management and legal matters — for those, use a solicitor or a tenancy-management platform.
Keep the compliance evidence current
Complys keeps your property safety certificates, condition and hazard records audit-ready across an open-ended tenancy — the compliance side, not tenancy management. It does not draft notices, handle rent increases or manage possession.
Renters' Rights Act compliance →FAQs
What is a periodic tenancy?
A tenancy that runs from period to period (typically month to month) with no fixed end date, rather than for a fixed term. Since 1 May 2026, assured tenancies in England are periodic under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 — there is no fixed term to expire.
How can rent be increased on a periodic tenancy?
Under the Act, rent may be increased once a year using the statutory process, with at least two months' notice of the new rent. Rental bidding and excessive advance rent are also restricted. The statutory notice route is the mechanism; a tenant can challenge an increase through the appropriate tribunal.
How does a tenant end a periodic tenancy?
A tenant can end a periodic tenancy by giving the required notice. Because there is no fixed term, the tenancy continues until properly ended by the tenant, or by the landlord using a ground for possession. The specific notice steps are a tenancy-management matter.
Does this apply across the UK?
No. This is part of the Renters' Rights Act 2025, which applies to England. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own separate tenancy systems.
Related: what is the Renters' Rights Act, section 21 abolition, and Renters' Rights Act compliance. England-specific; general information, not legal advice — check GOV.UK for the current position.