What is a periodic tenancy under the Renters' Rights Act 2025?
From 1 May 2026, all assured tenancies in England are periodic (month-to-month). Fixed-term tenancies no longer exist for new lettings. Notice periods and grounds for possession are set by the Act.
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Periodic tenancies under the Renters' Rights Act 2025
What changed on 1 May 2026?
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (RRA 2025) came into force on 1 May 2026 and fundamentally changed how residential tenancies work in England:
- Fixed-term assured tenancies are abolished for new lettings
- All new assured tenancies are periodic (also called rolling tenancies)
- The tenancy runs indefinitely until ended by the tenant or by the landlord using a valid statutory ground
What is a periodic tenancy?
A periodic tenancy has no fixed end date. Instead, it continues from period to period (usually month to month) until:
- The tenant gives notice — at least two months' written notice
- The landlord obtains possession — only using one of the statutory grounds set out in the Act (e.g. selling the property, moving in a family member, serious rent arrears)
Notice periods
| Party | Minimum notice |
|---|---|
| Tenant to landlord | 2 months |
| Landlord to tenant (most grounds) | 4 months |
| Landlord — rent arrears (mandatory ground) | 4 weeks |
Do existing fixed-term tenancies still apply?
Fixed-term tenancies that started before 1 May 2026 continue under their existing terms until they expire. Once they expire, they convert to periodic tenancies under the new rules.
What does this mean for my rent?
Your landlord can only increase rent once per year by giving a Section 13 notice. You can challenge the increase at the First-tier Tribunal.
Where can I read the Act?
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is available at legislation.gov.uk.