All tenants renting from private landlords are on periodic tenancies, also known as ‘rolling’ or ‘indefinite’ tenancies. Even if you were still within a fixed-term tenancy, as of 1 May 2026, all private tenancies have shifted to a rolling tenancy. All new tenancies since this date will also be a rolling tenancy by default.
This means that you cannot be required to remain in a private tenancy for longer than the notice period you need to provide, which is two months. Previously fixed term tenancies locked tenants in for 6 or 12 months, or sometimes longer, but this has since changed because of the Renters’ Rights Act.
Your tenancy continues month to month, without a fixed end date. You can end it at any time by giving the proper notice of two months.
Your landlord, meanwhile, can only ask you to leave if they have a valid legal reason and follow the correct process. Find out more here.
If you decide to move out, give your landlord the required notice in writing, keep copies of all communication and make sure your landlord confirms receipt of your notice, which may be helpful when seeking the return of your deposit. You can read more about ending your tenancy here.
If your landlord or agent is refusing to offer a periodic tenancy or attempting to pressure you into signing a new 12-month contract, they could be breaking the law. Consider reporting them to your local council, who could fine them. Read more.
