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Abolition of Assured Shorthold Tenancies

Historically, Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) have been the most common type of tenancy agreement in the private rented sector.

They typically offered landlords a high degree of flexibility, including the ability to regain possession of their property at the end of a fixed term or via a Section 21 notice—otherwise known as a “no-fault” eviction.

These will be replaced with periodic tenancies, which will enable tenants to stay in their home until they decide to end their tenancy. Tenants will now be required to give 2 months’ notice - this is extended from one months' notice if rent is paid monthly, or 4 weeks' if rent is paid weekly.

Key takeaways

What you need to know

  • ASTs will be phased out and replaced with periodic tenancies.
  • Tenants can leave with two months’ notice at any time.
  • Landlords will still be able to evict tenants, but must now specify grounds for ending a tenancy.

What's changing?

Under the Renters’ Rights Bill, all new tenancies will be periodic from the outset, effectively ending the use of fixed-term ASTs.

What this means

  • Tenancies will roll on a month-to-month basis (or week-to-week, depending on how rent is paid).
  • There will be no automatic end date to a tenancy.
  • Tenants will be able to leave with two months’ notice at any time.
  • Landlords will still be able to end a tenancy, but will now have to specify legal grounds for doing so. 

Why the change?

The government’s aim is to create a more balanced and secure rental market. By removing fixed terms and “no-fault” evictions, tenants gain greater housing stability, while landlords retain the right to regain possession under fair and transparent conditions.

This change is designed to

  • Reduce the risk of sudden displacement for tenants.
  • Encourage longer-term tenancies.
  • Improve tenant confidence in asserting their rights (e.g. requesting repairs) without fear of retaliatory eviction.


 

What this means for landlords

As a landlord, you’ll need to adjust your letting practices. But crucially, you will still be able to regain possession of your property. The Renters’ Rights Bill just means the process will look a bit different.

Under the new legislation

  • No more fixed-term contracts: All agreements will be open-ended.
  • Clear documentation: Tenancy agreements must reflect the new periodic structure.
  • Understanding possession grounds Landlords must be familiar with the updated legal grounds for ending a tenancy, such as selling the property or tenant misconduct.

Got a question about your rental property?

If you have any questions for our team about the Renters' Rights Bill and what it means for you as a landlord, please contact your nearest lettings branch or fill in your details below and we'll get back to you. 

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