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Tenancy Agreements & Notice Periods in the UK (2025): What Renters Need to Know
Renting a home can feel confusing — especially when it comes to notice periods and tenancy agreements. How much notice do you need to give if you want to move out? How much notice must your landlord give you? And what changes are on the way with the Renters’ Rights Bill?
This guide breaks it down in simple terms so you know exactly where you stand.
What Is a Tenancy Agreement?
A tenancy agreement is the contract between you and your landlord. It sets out:
- How much rent you’ll pay and when
- How long you can stay
- What repairs or bills you’re responsible for
- How much notice either side must give to end the tenancy
There are two main types:
- Fixed-term tenancy – runs for a set period (e.g. 12 months).
- Periodic tenancy – rolls on week-by-week or month-by-month after the fixed term ends.
Current Notice Periods (August 2025)
Here’s a quick look at how much notice tenants and landlords need to give under today’s rules:
| Situation | Notice Period (Tenant) | Notice Period (Landlord) |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed-term tenancy (no break clause) | Cannot normally leave early unless landlord agrees | Cannot normally end early unless tenant breaches contract |
| Fixed-term tenancy (with break clause) | Usually 1–2 months (check your agreement) | Usually 2 months, but terms vary |
| Periodic tenancy (rolling month by month) | At least 1 month’s notice, ending the day before rent is due | 2 months (Section 21 notice) – if valid deposit protection is in place |
| Periodic tenancy (weekly rent) | At least 4 weeks’ notice | 2 months (Section 21 notice) |
| Rent arrears / breach of tenancy (Section 8 notice) | N/A | Between 2 weeks and 2 months, depending on grounds |
Tenants: If your contract demands more than 1 month’s notice on a rolling tenancy, that may not be legally enforceable if it gives you fewer rights than the law.
What’s Changing: The Renters’ Rights Bill
Big reforms are on the way. The UK Government’s Renters’ Rights Bill (expected late 2025/early 2026) will:
- Abolish Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
- End fixed-term tenancies — all new tenancies will be periodic
- Allow tenants to leave with just 2 months’ notice
- Limit landlords to one rent increase per year
- Cap upfront rent to 1 month
- Ban discrimination against families with children or people on benefits
This means tenants will soon have more flexibility and protection, while landlords will need to adapt to the new rules.
Practical Tips Before You Sign
- Check the break clause – without one, you could be stuck in a fixed term.
- Know your deposit rights – deposits must be protected in a government scheme.
- Clarify bills – ask who pays for utilities and council tax.
- Don’t confuse lodging with tenancy – lodgers have fewer legal rights.
Key Takeaway
Right now, most tenants only need to give 1 month’s notice on a rolling tenancy, and landlords must give 2 months using Section 21. But with the Renters’ Rights Bill coming, expect a shift towards more flexible, tenant-friendly rules.
Understanding your tenancy agreement — and your rights — can save you stress, money, and disputes later on.
