Renters Rights Essentials – Navigating the shift to periodic tenancies
November 13, 2025
As the Renters’ Rights Act introduces significant changes to the rental landscape, letting agents must adapt swiftly, particularly with the shift to periodic tenancies.
Here’s what you need to know and the steps you should take to ensure a seamless transition for your agency, landlords, and tenants.
What will happen to tenancies following the Renters’ Rights Act
Once the rules set out in the Renters’ Rights Act become law, periodic tenancies will replace fixed-term tenancies.
This will not be a phased change, all existing fixed-term tenancies will be converted to periodic tenancies. From that point, landlords will no longer be able to serve Section 21 notices, and tenants will be able to leave the property whenever they like, with two months’ notice.
There is no date announced yet for when this change will take effect, but there will be sufficient notice given to allow all parties time to prepare.
Update Tenancy Agreements
The most obvious way this will affect letting agents is that tenancy agreements will need to be updated.
Letting agents must audit and update all tenancy agreements to reflect the change.
Ensure all documentation clearly outlines the terms under which tenants can give notice and how this impacts both parties.
Utilising our Vision+ platform can streamline this process with compliant tenancy templates that automatically update as regulations evolve.
Inform Landlords and Tenants
Clear communication is key during this transition. Make sure that your landlord customers are aware of the implications of periodic tenancies, especially regarding the flexibility tenants now have.
Similarly, inform tenants about their new rights and responsibilities under this setup. Providing detailed guides and holding informational sessions can help ease any concerns and foster transparency.
Leverage Pre-Tenancy Solutions
Prepare for the new tenancy landscape with robust pre-tenancy solutions. The Vision+ platform is designed to support letting agents through this change, offering tools to manage tenant onboarding efficiently. From tenant referencing to compliance checks, ensure your processes are aligned with the new periodic tenancy requirements.
Rent Guarantee and Financial Protection
With the introduction of periodic tenancies, landlords may have concerns about financial stability and income predictability. Let Alliance offers Rent Guarantee insurance to mitigate these risks, providing a safety net for landlords. Proactively offering these solutions to your landlords will position you as a trusted advisor and help maintain strong relationships while you earn commission for each sale.
Conclusion
The shift to periodic tenancies marks a new era for the rental market. By updating agreements, communicating effectively with stakeholders, and utilizing comprehensive pre-tenancy and financial protection solutions, letting agents can navigate these changes successfully. Partner with Let Alliance to ensure your agency is ready to lead in this evolving landscape, leveraging tools and support designed to keep you compliant and efficient.
FAQs
What is a periodic tenancy?
A periodic tenancy is a rental agreement that continues on a rolling basis, typically month-to-month, rather than being fixed for a set term like six or twelve months. This offers flexibility for tenants.
Why are fixed-term tenancies being replaced
The move to periodic tenancies is part of the Renters’ Rights Act, which aims to offer tenants more flexibility and security, and to align rental practices more closely with modern living arrangements.
How should I update existing tenancy agreements?
Ensure all references to fixed terms are removed and that the agreement clearly outlines the periodic nature of the tenancy. Consider using platforms like Vision+ for compliant templates.
What role does Vision+ play in this transition?
Vision+ streamlines the updating of tenancy agreements, provides compliant templates, and automates much of the administrative workload throughout the tenant onboarding and full tenancy, allowing agents to focus on client service.
What should I do if I encounter resistance from landlords or tenants?
Provide clear, fact-based information on the benefits of periodic tenancies and why the new law is coming in. Highlight how they can reduce void periods for landlords and offer greater flexibility for tenants, potentially increasing tenant satisfaction and retention.
