Changes to tenancies
From 1 May 2026, all Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will automatically become rolling monthly tenancies, known as Assured Periodic Tenancies (APTs).
This means fixed‑term contracts will effectively end. Instead, tenancies will continue on a month‑to‑month basis until either the tenant or the landlord ends the tenancy in the proper way.
What this means for tenants
Rolling tenancies give tenants greater flexibility. You won’t be locked into long fixed terms and can leave when your circumstances change – for example, if you start a new job, move home, or decide to buy a property.
To end a tenancy, tenants will usually need to:
- give at least two months’ notice.
- do this in writing (for example by letter or email).
- make sure the tenancy ends on, or just before, a rent payment date.
A shorter notice period can still be agreed if both the tenant and landlord are happy with this.
What this means for landlords
When an AST becomes an APT, the tenancy is treated as continuous. This means landlords do not need to re‑protect deposits or re‑issue existing safety certificates simply because the tenancy type has changed.
The change happens automatically from 1 May 2026.
