Periodic Tenancy

Tenancy Types

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

Periodic Tenancy is a tenancy running on a rolling basis (typically month-to-month) without a fixed end date, continuing automatically until either party serves proper notice. From 1 May 2026 under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, all new tenancies become periodic by default, with tenants able to give 2 months' notice at any time and landlords requiring Section 8 grounds to regain possession since Section 21 no-fault evictions are abolished.

How Periodic Tenancies Arise

Statutory periodic:

  • Fixed term AST expires
  • Tenant remains in occupation
  • Automatically becomes periodic

Contractual periodic:

  • Tenancy agreement states periodic from start
  • No fixed term ever existed
  • Terms set by agreement

Length of Rental Period

The period is usually:

  • Monthly: For rent paid monthly
  • Weekly: For rent paid weekly
  • Period = however often rent is paid

Ending a Periodic Tenancy

Tenant notice:

  • At least one full rental period
  • In practice, usually one month minimum
  • Must end on correct day

Landlord notice:

  • Section 21: 2 months (being abolished)
  • Section 8: Varies by ground (14 days to 2 months)
  • Must follow correct procedures

Key Features

Flexibility:

  • Tenant can leave with relatively short notice
  • No commitment to fixed period
  • Adapts to changing circumstances

Security:

  • Tenant cannot be evicted without proper notice
  • Same protections as fixed term
  • Deposit remains protected

Renters' Rights Act 2025 Changes

From May 2026:

  • All tenancies become periodic by default
  • No more fixed terms with guaranteed possession
  • Section 21 abolished
  • Tenants can give 2 months' notice at any time
  • Landlords need Section 8 grounds to evict

For Letting Agents

Managing periodic tenancies:

  • Track notice periods carefully
  • Understand correct notice requirements
  • Advise landlords on limited recovery options
  • Prepare for shift to periodic as default
  • Maintain good tenant relationships

Related Terms

Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST)

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

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

Rolling Tenancy

Another term for a periodic tenancy that continues on a month-to-month basis without a fixed end date

Back to Glossary

Ready to streamline your lettings?

Put this knowledge into practice with PropertyPanda's modern lettings platform.