When Will Fixed-Term Tenancies End Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 represents one of the most significant housing reforms in decades. A central element of this legislation is the abolition of fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) and their replacement with open-ended periodic tenancies.

Understanding when fixed-term tenancies will end under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is essential for landlords, letting agents, and tenants preparing for the transition.

This article explains the official timeline, transition process, and what landlords must do to ensure full compliance.

From AST to Periodic: The Major Tenancy Shift

Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, the traditional six- or twelve-month fixed-term AST will cease to exist. All new tenancies will automatically begin as periodic agreements, meaning they continue indefinitely until the tenant chooses to leave or the landlord lawfully regains possession.

This reform aims to give tenants more flexibility and long-term security, allowing them to move or remain in a property without being tied to a rigid term. For landlords, this change means adapting their contracts and management systems to align with the new legal framework.

When we ask when fixed-term tenancies will end under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, it’s important to note that the change is not immediate for every tenancy—it will roll out in a structured, staged approach over several months.

When the Transition Will Take Place

According to government guidance, fixed-term tenancies will officially be phased out starting in mid-2025. The legislation takes effect in stages to allow letting agents and landlords time to adapt.

Key Timeline:

Mid-2025: All new tenancies created after the enforcement date must be periodic.
Late 2025 to Early 2026: Existing fixed-term tenancies will automatically convert to periodic tenancies upon their natural end date.
By Mid-2026, it is expected that all active tenancies will have transitioned to periodic agreements.

This gradual implementation ensures a smoother process for both landlords and tenants. Knowing exactly when fixed-term tenancies will end under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 helps landlords prepare by updating agreements, rent increase schedules, and notice procedures well in advance.

How Existing Tenancies Will Be Affected

Existing tenancies signed before the Act’s commencement will continue under their original fixed terms until those terms expire. Once a fixed-term tenancy reaches its end date, it will automatically convert to a periodic tenancy.

There is no need to sign a new agreement unless the landlord or tenant wishes to amend other terms.

For example, if a tenant began a 12-month AST in January 2025, that agreement will run its course until January 2026. At that point, the tenancy will convert to a periodic one by law, even if no further paperwork is issued.

This means landlords cannot rely on fixed end dates to recover possession or renew contracts annually. They must instead follow the new statutory possession process set out in the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.

When considering when fixed-term tenancies will end under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, landlords should also note that early termination clauses (such as break clauses) will no longer operate in the same way once the agreement becomes periodic. The focus shifts from fixed terms to fair notice and valid grounds for possession.

What Landlords Must Do to Stay Compliant

The end of fixed-term tenancies requires landlords and letting agents to make several significant changes to remain compliant with the new law.

Update Tenancy Agreements

Landlords should remove all references to fixed terms, renewal dates, and automatic extensions. Each new agreement should clearly state that the tenancy is periodic and ongoing until properly ended.

Review Possession Procedures

Without Section 21 “no-fault” evictions, landlords must rely on specific grounds under the Act to regain possession. It’s vital to understand which grounds apply, such as rent arrears or the landlord’s intention to sell.

Adjust Rent Review Clauses

Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and tenants must receive proper notice. Outdated rent review wording that conflicts with the Act must be removed.

Communicate with Tenants

Landlords should inform current tenants about how the transition affects them, including how notice and rent changes will work once their tenancy becomes periodic.

Keep Records

Ensure documentation is up to date, including deposit protection details, EPC certificates, and rent increase notices, to avoid disputes or tribunal claims.

By taking these proactive steps, landlords will stay compliant and avoid penalties as fixed-term tenancies are phased out.

Impact on Tenant Security and Flexibility

The end of fixed-term tenancies under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 significantly strengthens tenant security. Tenants can now remain in their homes as long as they wish, provided they follow the tenancy terms and pay rent. They no longer face automatic eviction at the end of a fixed period or unexpected renewal pressures.

For tenants, this means greater flexibility to leave with reasonable notice when their circumstances change. For landlords, it introduces more stability—tenants are likely to stay longer, reducing turnover and void periods.

However, landlords must also adapt to more extended notice periods and fewer grounds for possession. Proper documentation and communication will be essential to maintaining positive relationships and ensuring smooth management.

Overall, the shift represents a balance between tenant protection and landlord rights, bringing the rental market closer to European-style indefinite tenancies.

FAQs

Do I need to issue new tenancy agreements?

Not immediately. Existing fixed-term tenancies will automatically convert to periodic tenancies upon expiry. However, landlords should update their templates and begin using compliant agreements for any new lets created after the Act’s enforcement date. Issuing new contracts proactively can also help clarify rights and avoid confusion.

Will rent review clauses still apply after conversion?

Yes, but only in line with the new rules. Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and landlords must give at least two months’ written notice. Any rent review clauses that contradict these requirements will be invalid.

Conclusion

Knowing exactly when fixed-term tenancies will end under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 helps landlords prepare for the most significant tenancy reform in decades. The change to periodic tenancies will reshape how agreements are managed, ensuring more flexibility for tenants while holding landlords to higher standards of fairness and compliance. Preparing early and updating documents will make the transition smooth, transparent, and legally sound for everyone involved.

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Need help now? Contact Landlord Advice UK today for tailored guidance and practical support to future-proof your rental business.