Ending a tenancy as a tenant
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Quick answer: From 1 May 2026, assured periodic tenants in England can leave at any time by giving at least two months' written notice ending on or the day before a rent due date — you and your landlord can agree a shorter notice in writing.
Whether you are moving for work, buying a home or need to leave for other reasons, ending a tenancy correctly protects you from ongoing rent liability. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 abolished fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies in England from 1 May 2026 — most private tenants now hold rolling assured periodic tenancies with simpler notice rules. This guide explains how to leave properly. It is information only, not legal advice.
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Read the full mortgages & first homes guide →Primary source: www.gov.uk/assured-periodic-tenancies-tenants/how-to-end-your-tenancy
Giving notice under an assured periodic tenancy
Write to your landlord with your name, address and move-out date. Email, letter or text is acceptable unless your agreement specifies otherwise — keep a copy. Your notice must be at least two months and end on a day when rent is due or the day before.
You must continue paying rent until the tenancy ends. You can leave earlier without paying the remaining period only if your landlord agrees in writing.
Joint tenancies
If you share a joint tenancy, one joint tenant can usually end the entire tenancy by giving valid notice, even if others want to stay. If a joint tenant wants a shorter notice period, all joint tenants must agree.
If some tenants want to remain, you may need to negotiate a new tenancy agreement with the landlord after the original tenancy ends.
Changing your mind and early surrender
If you give notice but then want to stay, you can remain only if your landlord agrees in writing. Without that agreement, the tenancy ends on the date in your notice.
If you need to leave with less than two months' notice, ask your landlord to accept a surrender — a mutual agreement to end early. Get any deal in writing. Leaving without proper notice could mean you owe rent until a new tenant is found or the notice period expires.
Common questions
Do fixed-term contracts still exist in England?
From 1 May 2026, assured periodic tenancies cannot have fixed end dates. Any end date in an existing agreement no longer applies — your tenancy continues on a rolling basis until properly ended.
Can my landlord charge a break fee?
Early-termination penalties tied to fixed terms no longer apply to assured periodic tenancies. You may still owe rent if you leave without valid notice or an agreed surrender.
When do I get my deposit back?
After you leave, your landlord should return your deposit within 10 days once you agree any deductions. If there is a dispute, the tenancy deposit scheme holds the money until it is resolved.