UK Renters’ Right Act: No more fixed term tenancy

The UK Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect on May 1, 2026, marking the end of fixed term tenancy agreements. This legislation ensures that all existing fixed term tenancies will be converted into periodic tenancies, eliminating the need for new Section 21 or the old-style Section 8 eviction notices. Landlords will no longer be able to issue these evictions, providing tenants with immediate security and a more stable living situation.

Starting from May 1, 2026, tenancies will no longer have fixed end dates, and they will automatically become rolling tenancies, also known as 'periodic tenancies.' These tenancies will continue on a rolling basis, typically on a monthly, weekly, or fortnightly basis, depending on the agreement. Tenancies will continue until either the tenant and landlord mutually decide to end the tenancy, the tenant provides notice, or the landlord ends the tenancy with a valid legal reason.

This change impacts both tenants and landlords significantly. For tenants, the elimination of fixed term tenancies means they no longer have a set end date, providing them with greater security in their living arrangements. However, landlords now face uncertainty regarding when tenants might decide to move out, as they can no longer rely on the tenancy ending at the fixed term's expiration.

Despite the challenges, the new legislation offers landlords new ways to end tenancies that were previously unavailable. Landlords must have a valid reason to terminate a tenancy under the new law, replacing the old 'no-fault' eviction under Section 21. While this shift requires landlords to adopt a different mindset, it also provides them with more flexibility in managing their property assets.