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Everything landlords need to know about tenancy agreements in England — from choosing the right type to ensuring full compliance with the Renters' Rights Act 2025.
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 has fundamentally changed how tenancy agreements work in England. The most significant change is that all assured tenancies are now periodic from day one. Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies can no longer be created. Every new tenancy begins as a periodic tenancy, rolling on a month-by-month (or week-by-week) basis with no end date.
Landlords are now required to provide tenants with a written statement of terms at the start of the tenancy. While a full written tenancy agreement is not strictly mandatory, having one is essential in practice. A comprehensive written agreement protects both parties, sets clear expectations, and provides the evidence base you need if you ever have to rely on Section 8 grounds for possession.
The RRA 2025 also renders certain tenancy clauses void. Any clause that restricts the tenant's right to keep a pet is void unless the landlord has obtained consent from a superior landlord to refuse (and the Act sets out a consent process for pet requests). Clauses that attempt to contract out of the tenant's statutory rights — such as the right to challenge an above-market rent increase — are also unenforceable.
For existing tenancies, the transition is automatic. Fixed-term ASTs that were in place before the commencement date will convert to periodic tenancies once the fixed term expires (or immediately, if the fixed term has already expired). Landlords do not need to issue a new agreement for the conversion, but it is good practice to provide an updated agreement that reflects the new legal position.
Understanding the different types of tenancy agreement, when each applies, and how to vary the terms is more important than ever. Whether you are creating a new agreement for the first time or updating an existing one for RRA compliance, this hub page links to all of our tenancy agreement guides, tools, and articles.
A well-drafted tenancy agreement is the foundation of a successful tenancy. It reduces disputes, protects your legal position, and ensures both you and your tenant know exactly where you stand.
Everything you need to know about ASTs — how they work under the RRA 2025, tenant and landlord rights, and the transition from fixed-term to periodic.
Full checklist of everything you need to do before, during, and after letting a property under the current legal framework.
When and how a landlord can vary the terms of a tenancy agreement, including the legal requirements for valid changes.
A clear explanation of ASTs, how they differ from other tenancy types, and what the RRA 2025 changes mean for them.
The key legal differences between lodgers and tenants, which agreement type you need, and why it matters.
Are verbal tenancy agreements legally binding? What rights do tenants have, and what risks do landlords face?
How courts distinguish between a tenancy and a licence, and why getting it wrong can have serious consequences.
How existing fixed-term tenancies transition to periodic tenancies and what landlords need to do.
Whether your existing agreement is still valid, when you should update it, and what to change for RRA compliance.
What happens when one joint tenant wants to leave, the legal position on notice, and how to handle the transition.
When to ask for a guarantor, how guarantor agreements work, and the legal requirements for a valid guarantee.
What to look for in a tenancy agreement template, essential clauses, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Everything about deposit protection, caps, deductions, disputes, and returns under current law.
Complete guide to the eviction process — Section 8 grounds, court process, timelines, and enforcement.
Generate your complete document pack in minutes. Includes a fully RRA-compliant tenancy agreement, prescribed information templates, and all the supporting documents you need.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change and individual circumstances vary. You should always seek independent legal advice before taking action. TenancyPack is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.