Rolling monthly tenancies
Most private rented tenancies are now Assured Periodic Tenancies (APTs). This means tenancies no longer operate on fixed terms in the way they did previously.
Instead, they continue from month to month until either the tenant or landlord ends the tenancy following the correct legal process.
What this means for tenants
Assured Periodic Tenancies give tenants greater flexibility. You are not tied into long fixed-term agreements and can choose to move when your circumstances change, for example if you start a new job, relocate or purchase a home.
If you want to end your tenancy, you will usually need to:
- give your landlord at least two months' notice.
- provide notice in writing, such as by letter or email.
- clearly state the date you intend to leave.
A shorter notice period can still be agreed if both you and your landlord agree in writing.
What this means for landlords
When an Assured Shorthold Tenancy becomes an Assured Periodic Tenancy, it is treated as a continuation of the existing tenancy rather than a new tenancy.
Landlords must however continue to meet their legal responsibilities throughout the tenancy. This includes:
- keeping tenancy deposits protected in an approved deposit protection scheme where required.
- carrying out annual gas safety inspections where gas appliances are provided.
- ensuring electrical safety requirements are met.
- providing tenants with any certificates, reports or information required by law.
- keeping the property safe and in a good state of repair.
The move to an Assured Periodic Tenancy has not changed these responsibilities.
Ending an Assured Periodic Tenancy (APTs)
Landlords can no longer use Section 21 ("no-fault") evictions to end a tenancy. Instead, they must rely on a valid legal ground for possession and follow the the Section 8 process - find out more about the Section 8 process on the government website.
A court will normally decide whether possession can be granted.
Report an issue to us
To report a tenancy breach to us, please email our housing enforcement team.
