How much notice a tenant should give cannot safely be answered from an old fixed-term template alone. This guide covers assured periodic tenancies in England and reflects GOV.UK guidance checked on 4 November 2026. Other tenancy types and other UK nations have different rules.
For the current assured periodic process, the government says the agreement should state the notice period, with a maximum of two months. Where it does not specify a period, the tenant needs to give at least two months. Notice must be in writing and end the tenancy on a rent-due date or the day before. A tenant should keep a copy.
The guidance says landlord and tenant can agree a shorter period or earlier ending in writing. Rent normally remains payable during notice. Changing your mind after giving notice requires the landlord’s written agreement.
Check older agreements separately
For tenancies beginning before 1 May 2026, GOV.UK provides a separate explanation. An existing shorter contractual notice period may still apply, and the position depends on the agreement and the earlier tenancy arrangements. A blanket statement that everyone must now give precisely two months would therefore be misleading.
Before choosing a date, gather the agreement, any later written changes, the rent schedule and any earlier notice. If the documents point in different directions, ask for advice before relying on a date. Do not assume that handing back keys settles a disagreement about when the tenancy legally ends.
Make the practical handover clear
Once the position is established, confirm the proposed end date and ask for the check-out arrangements. A simple written checklist can cover keys, meter readings, forwarding details, cleaning expectations and the inspection. Keep that practical checklist separate from any disputed legal question about notice.
For landlords and agents, acknowledge the notice promptly and state any concern clearly. If you agree to a shorter period, record exactly what has been agreed, including the date and how rent will be dealt with. Avoid leaving an important concession to an ambiguous telephone conversation.
Joint tenancies need care
Where several tenants share one agreement, a notice can affect people who did not intend to move. Obtain advice before assuming a person’s departure is merely an administrative name change. The government guidance explains joint-tenancy endings and swaps separately.
This article replaces outdated archive material about AST notice and section 21. It is an introduction to checking the current position, not individual legal advice.
Sources: GOV.UK, How to end your tenancy; Ending a tenancy that started before 1 May 2026.