My fixed-term tenancy has ended — what happens now?

Your tenancy continues automatically — nothing ends just because a fixed term expired. Since 1 May 2026, fixed-term end dates no longer carry the same weight. Your tenancy has already converted into a rolling assured periodic tenancy.

Before the new law, landlords could use a Section 21 notice at the end of a fixed term to remove you with no reason given. That no longer applies. Even if your tenancy agreement says it ended on a specific date, you remain a legal tenant on a rolling basis.

You keep all the same rights. The same rent applies until your landlord follows the Section 13 process to increase it. You stay until either you give two months' notice to leave, or your landlord successfully uses a Section 8 ground to end it.

Your landlord cannot simply tell you to leave because the fixed term is up, nor can they change the locks or stop maintaining the property. That would be an illegal eviction.

If your landlord is claiming you have to leave because your fixed term ended, write to them clearly — by email so there's a record — stating that your tenancy has converted to an assured periodic tenancy under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 and you intend to stay. If they respond with threats or action, contact Shelter England at shelter.org.uk.