From 1st May 2026, fixed-term tenancies will become a thing of the past. All new tenancies in England will be open-ended, meaning there’s no automatic “end date” written into the agreement.
For tenants, this brings more security. They can stay in their home long-term without worrying about being asked to leave simply because a fixed term has expired. For landlords, it means a shift in mindset rather than a loss of control.
Landlords can still regain possession, but only for a valid reason using Section 8. Common grounds include rent arrears, serious breaches of the tenancy, selling the property, or moving back in. What’s changed is that timing and evidence now matter far more than before.
There’s also a protected period at the start of the tenancy, during which certain grounds can’t be used. This is designed to stop tenants being moved on shortly after moving in, but it does mean landlords need to plan ahead.
In practice, open-ended tenancies reward good management. Clear communication, proper documentation, and professional advice make all the difference. When managed well, they can actually lead to longer tenancies, fewer voids, and more stable income — which is something most landlords want anyway.
Please speak to a member of our dedicated and knowledge team should you require further information.
