The Renters' Rights Act brings to an end fixed-term shorthold tenancy (ASTs). These tenancy agreements have, for many years, been the standard contractual arrangement between landlords and tenants in the private sector, typically running for a fixed period – usually six to twelve months, but sometimes longer depending on the agreement. 

What Are The New Changes?

Under the new legislation, all new tenancies will become contractual periodic tenancies. This means:

• No fixed end date will be set at the start of the tenancy;
• Landlords will avoid administrative burdens related to tenancy renewals;
• Tenants will have the flexibility to give 2 months’ notice

Why Are These Changes Happening And What Does It Mean For Landlords?

The Government says the aim of the new legislation is to enhance tenant security and stability. Landlords should be aware that the removal of fixed term limits means:

• Tenants may give 2 months’ notice to end a tenancy;
• Landlords seeking possession of their property will have to rely on using a Section 8 Notice.

When Are the Changes Happening?

All existing assured shorthold tenancies will convert to the new tenancy structure on 1st May 2026. 

What Do Landlords Need To Do?

Landlords may continue to use existing Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) templates until the legislation is formally enacted.  

Landlords will likely be required to provide tenants with information about the changes and outline the new rules, but they will not need to issue any new tenancy agreements for existing tenancies at the point of commencement of the new rules. 

Any new tenancies entered into from the commencement date (e.g. 1 May 2026) will need to use a periodic assured tenancy agreement. 

The government is to confirm the exact information landlords must provide to tenants, as well as the new format of tenancy agreements. All templates are currently being reviewed and will be updated to reflect these changes.  

Please view the full range of our professionally drafted Assured Shorthold Tenancies within Property.