Periodic Tenancies – security and stability for tenants
As a property management company with many years of experience, we’ve always favoured tenancies that adapt to life, not constrain it. From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act removes fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs), converting them all to periodic – rolling weekly or monthly tenancies – across England. This ends the effective ‘trap’ of locked-in periods, effectively giving the tenant control.
Rolling tenancies
A periodic tenancy rolls over indefinitely until notice is given, matching the rent days (e.g., weekly or monthly). In the past, fixed terms (often a minimum of six months) forced the tenant to stay in the property regardless of circumstances, or risk penalties, and, in some cases, no-fault eviction. Now lets are going to be periodic, and all existing fixed terms will automatically convert at their expiry with no renewal needed. The changes also extend to when it’s time to move on – you can notify your landlord or letting agent with two months’ notice anytime, without seeking landlord consent or incurring fees.
If a landlord wanted to evict you, they would require valid Section 8 grounds and typically four months’ notice.
From a tenant perspective, you’re getting the flexibility and reliability you need. Life changes, and that’s understood, but from now on job moves, family growth, or whatever, won’t be cause for a penalty.
What else can tenants expect?
Other updates in the act mean that you’ll be able to challenge repairs or unfair practices confidently, and be safe from eviction threats thanks to the ombudsman. For students, a ‘student periodic’ tenancy term aligns with academic years (fixed September-August, then periodic). Joint sharers also benefit, with all parties’ notice being linked together unless agreed otherwise, simplifying group moves. There’ll be no more void periods from mismatched ends, and properties will turn over faster.
At Urpad, we’re proud to say that we streamline this all seamlessly. Our agreements are all compliant, and they outline notice periods precisely. We conduct thorough referencing and matching for properties, landlords and tenants, reducing the chance of disputes. We conduct regular inspections to prevent problems and maintain Decent Homes Standards.
Why Urpad?
Our nationwide approach, based from our Bristol head office, ensures consistency across our network. We handle transitions, advise on notice timing, and mediate extensions. We’re the intermediary between all our tenants and the property owners. We’ve long focused on tenant retention through quality management, and now the law is doing the same thing.
Periodic tenancies make renting a viable long-term choice. If you’ve got any questions about Periodic tenancies, the Renters Rights Act or anything else, just get in contact.