Ending your tenancy

Whether you’re thinking about moving on or staying put, it’s important to understand your options. From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act introduces new rules that affect how most private tenancies end or continue.

This guide explains how ending or extending a tenancy works under the new system, what notice is required, and what to expect if your plans change.

What happens to my tenancy from 1 May 2026?

From 1 May 2026, most private renters in England will have an assured periodic tenancy.

This means:

• Your tenancy continues on a rolling basis, usually month to month
• There is no fixed end date
• You don’t need to sign a new agreement for this change to happen

Existing assured shorthold tenancies automatically move to this new system, unless your landlord served a valid eviction notice before 1 May 2026.

Ending your tenancy as a renter

If you decide to move out, you’ll usually need to:

• Give two months’ notice in writing
• Make sure your notice date lines up with your rent period
• Keep paying rent during the notice period

Your tenancy agreement should explain how notice should be given and where it needs to be sent. It’s good practice to keep a copy for your records.

Can I leave earlier?

You may be able to leave sooner than your 2 month notice period if:

• You and your landlord agree to end the tenancy early
• You agree a specific end date together

Any early end should be confirmed in writing to avoid confusion about rent or responsibilities.

What if I want to stay?

You don’t need to do anything to extend your tenancy.

Because tenancies are now open‑ended, you can stay in the property, as long as:

• You keep to the terms of the tenancy
• You continue paying rent

Landlords no longer renew fixed terms, but they can still increase rent or end the tenancy by following the correct legal process.

Can my landlord ask me to leave?

Landlords can no longer end tenancies without a reason.

From 1 May 2026, a landlord must:

• Have a valid legal reason to end the tenancy
• Follow the correct notice process
• Give you the required notice period

Common legal reasons include rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, selling the property, or moving in themselves or a close family member.

What happens at the end of a tenancy?

When you move out, you should:

• Remove all belongings
• Leave the property in a similar condition to when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear
• Take final meter readings
• Return all keys

This can help avoid disputes when your tenancy deposit is returned.

Key things to remember

• Most tenancies are now rolling and open‑ended
• You usually need to give two months’ notice to leave
• Landlords must have a legal reason to end a tenancy
• Fixed‑term renewals no longer apply

Understanding your options can help you plan your next move with confidence.

FAQs

• Do I need to renew my tenancy if I want to stay?

  No. Most private tenancies are now open‑ended and rolling, so you don’t need to renew or sign a new agreement to stay in your home. Your tenancy continues unless you or your landlord take steps to end it.

• How much notice do I need to give if I want to leave?

  You’ll usually need to give two months’ notice in writing. Your notice should line up with your rent period, and you’ll need to keep paying rent during this time.

• Can my landlord ask me to leave without giving a reason?

  No. From 1 May 2026, landlords can no longer end a tenancy without a valid legal reason. They must follow the correct process and give the required notice.

• What are common reasons a landlord can end a tenancy?

  Examples include serious rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, selling the property, or the landlord (or a close family member) moving in. The landlord must use the correct legal route.

• What happens if I don’t give the right notice?

  If you don’t give the correct notice (which is usually 2 months), you may still be responsible for paying rent until the notice period is properly served. This can also affect the return of your deposit.

• What should I do before moving out?

  Before leaving, it’s a good idea to remove all belongings, clean the property, take meter readings, return the keys, and leave the home in a similar condition to when you moved in (allowing for fair wear and tear).