Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST)

Tenancy Types

The most common type of residential tenancy in England, giving landlords the right to regain possession while providing tenants with certain protections

Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is the default residential tenancy type in England, used for over 90% of the 4.7 million private rented households. Created by the Housing Act 1988, ASTs give landlords possession rights via Section 21 and Section 8 notices while tenants receive deposit protection and minimum term guarantees. From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 abolishes Section 21 no-fault evictions for all ASTs.

Key Features

  • Standard tenancy type for private rentals since 1997
  • Minimum initial term typically 6 or 12 months
  • Tenant has right to stay for the minimum period
  • Landlord can regain possession using Section 21 or Section 8 notices
  • Tenant's deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme

When ASTs Apply

An AST is created automatically when:

  • The property is let as the tenant's main home
  • The tenant is an individual (not a company)
  • The landlord doesn't live in the property
  • The annual rent is less than £100,000

Important Changes (2025-2026)

Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, Section 21 "no-fault" evictions are being abolished. From May 2026:

  • ASTs will convert to periodic tenancies by default
  • Landlords must use specific Section 8 grounds to regain possession
  • Fixed terms remain optional but won't guarantee possession at end

For Letting Agents

As a letting agent, understanding ASTs is fundamental to your business. Key responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring correct AST documentation
  • Serving required notices (How to Rent Guide, EPC, Gas Safety Certificate)
  • Protecting deposits within 30 days
  • Understanding when an AST becomes periodic

Related Terms

Break Clause

A provision in a tenancy agreement allowing either landlord or tenant to end the tenancy early, typically after an initial fixed period

Fixed-Term Tenancy

A tenancy agreement with a specific start and end date, typically 6 or 12 months, providing certainty for both landlord and tenant

Periodic Tenancy

A tenancy that runs on a rolling basis without a fixed end date, typically continuing month to month until either party gives notice

Section 21 Notice

A 'no-fault' eviction notice allowing landlords to regain possession without proving tenant wrongdoing - being abolished under the Renters' Rights Act 2025

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