Options when your fixed term tenancy ends
The law is changing
The Renters' Rights Act will change the law on fixed term tenancies and ending a tenancy.
For now, your rights stay the same.
Fixed term private tenancies
Private tenancies often start as fixed term assured shorthold tenancies.
You have 3 options when your fixed term ends. You can:
leave the tenancy
sign a new agreement for a new fixed term
let your tenancy become a rolling or periodic tenancy
Your tenancy usually ends if you leave by the last day of the fixed term.
But some contracts say you have to give notice. Check your tenancy agreement.
Joint tenancies
It's usually easier if everyone agrees to leave or stay.
A joint tenancy continues if at least one joint tenant stays after the fixed term ends.
Make sure they sign a new agreement for a new tenancy. If they do not, you could be responsible for rent even if you move out.
Find out what to do if you want to leave but others want to stay.
Leaving when your fixed term ends
Tenancies usually end if you leave by the last day of the fixed term.
Some contracts become periodic tenancies unless you give notice to leave.
Check your contract before the fixed term ends to see:
if you have to give notice
how much notice to give
Tell your landlord if you plan to leave even if you do not need to give notice.
This can help you get your deposit back quickly.
If your landlord wants you to leave
You do not have to leave when your fixed term ends.
Your tenancy continues as a rolling or periodic tenancy.
Your landlord must give you a legal notice if they want to evict you.
More on eviction notices from private landlords.
Renewal agreements
A renewal agreement is a new contract. It is usually for another fixed term.
Make sure you read the whole agreement.
Check important things like:
rent
length of the fixed term
Talk with the landlord if you are not happy with anything.
Your landlord cannot make you sign a renewal agreement.
If you do not agree to the new contract but stay in your home, your tenancy continues as a rolling tenancy.
You cannot be charged a fee for a renewal agreement.
Rolling or periodic tenancies
A periodic tenancy has no end date.
Your tenancy becomes periodic if you:
stay after your fixed term
do not sign a new agreement
A joint tenancy becomes periodic if any joint tenants stay on, unless there's a new agreement.
You pay your rent as usual and your agreement stays the same.
Find out how your rent can go up.
You can usually end a periodic tenancy by giving your landlord 1 month's notice.
Leaving before your fixed term ends
You could end your fixed term tenancy early if:
your agreement has a break clause
your landlord agrees that you can end the tenancy early
Last updated: 3 November 2025
