How long am I committed for?

Posted on: 5 August 2025

How Long Will My Tenancy Last?

The length of your tenancy will depend on the terms agreed at the start of your contract. The most common initial tenancy is a six-month fixed term, which gives both landlord and tenant a clear, stable starting point.

After the Fixed Term Ends

Once the initial six months have passed, your tenancy can continue in one of two ways:

  1. Statutory Periodic Tenancy

    • The agreement continues month by month on the same terms

    • No new contract is required

    • You still retain the rights and responsibilities of your original agreement

  2. Renewal with a New Fixed Term

    • You may be offered a new fixed-term agreement, usually for another 6 or 12 months

    • This must be mutually agreed between you and your landlord

How Much Notice Do I Need to Give?

  • If you're within the fixed term:

    • You are committed to the full duration

    • You cannot end the tenancy early unless a break clause applies or your landlord agrees

  • After the fixed term ends (on a periodic tenancy):

    • You can end the tenancy by giving at least one month’s notice in writing

    • Your notice must end on the last day of a rental period

How Much Notice Can a Landlord Give?

  • Once the fixed term ends, your landlord must provide at least two months’ written notice to regain possession (under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988)

  • This notice cannot expire during the initial fixed term

  • The exact notice period may be longer if changes in legislation apply (e.g. under future reforms or local schemes)

Still Unsure?

Your local CGT Lettings team is happy to explain your agreement, notice periods, and what happens when your fixed term ends. We’re here to ensure you understand your rights and obligations at every stage of your tenancy.

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