Periodic Tenancies Explained – The Move Away from Fixed Terms

The move away from fixed-term tenancies is changing how landlords manage their properties day to day. In London, where the market moves quickly, it affects how tenancies start, run and end.

Under the new rules, most tenancies will become periodic by default. In practice, that means they roll on month to month rather than ending on a set date.

How tenancies will now work

Fixed-term agreements have been the norm for years. They give both sides a clear timeframe, usually six or twelve months, with a natural point to review or renew.

With periodic tenancies, that structure falls away. There is no fixed end date. Instead, the tenancy continues until the tenant gives notice or you rely on a legal ground to take the property back.

This removes the built-in checkpoint many landlords have relied on. You no longer have a set moment to review the tenancy or decide what to do next.

What this means for you as a landlord

This change has a direct impact on how you plan and manage your property.

Without a fixed term, you may find:

  • Fewer clear points to review or update the agreement
  • Less certainty over how long a tenant will stay
  • A greater need to stay in regular contact

ITenants can also leave with notice at any point. In some cases, that may lead to shorter stays, which can make planning ahead more difficult.

In a fast-moving market like London, that uncertainty is something landlords will need to factor in.

A more hands-on approach to management

With fewer formal milestones, the focus shifts to what happens during the tenancy rather than at the end of it.

You’ll need to stay on top of rent reviews, maintenance and communication as things arise. For example, rent changes won’t be tied to a renewal date, so timing and notice become more important.

It also means dealing with issues early, rather than waiting for a tenancy to come up for renewal.

In short, managing a property becomes more active and ongoing.

Keeping good tenants for longer

With no fixed end date, holding onto a reliable tenant becomes even more valuable.

Clear communication, quick responses and fair treatment all help build a stronger working relationship. When tenants feel settled, they are more likely to stay, which can reduce turnover and avoid gaps between lets.

On the flip side, poor management can lead to tenants leaving sooner than expected.

This puts more weight on how the tenancy is handled from start to finish.

Where the opportunities sit

While the change may feel uncertain at first, there are some clear upsides.

A good tenancy can continue without repeated renewals, which cuts down on admin. It can also create a smoother experience for both sides over time.You also have more flexibility if your own plans change, as long as you meet the legal grounds for regaining possession.

In areas with strong demand, well-managed properties will still attract tenants who want a stable place to live.

Why support makes a difference

As tenancies become more flexible, having the right support in place becomes more important.

At Hastings International, we work with landlords across London to manage periodic tenancies in a clear and consistent way. From setting the right rent to handling communication and compliance, we help keep things running as they should.

That support can take the pressure off and help deal with issues before they grow.

Looking Ahead

Periodic tenancies change the rhythm of property management. Instead of fixed checkpoints, it becomes about steady oversight and regular involvement.

For London landlords, adapting early will make things far easier. With the right approach, periodic tenancies can still offer reliable income and long-term stability.