Nothing lasts forever and all tenancies will eventually end.

However, it is important to realise that the fact that a tenancy has ended does not usually mean that the landlord can get vacant possession.  Certainly, he cannot physically evict tenants against their will and attempts to do this will be a criminal offence and will entitle the tenants to claim compensation.

In most cases, if the tenant remains in occupation, a new tenancy will take its place – normally, this will be a statutory or contractual periodic tenancy.

That said, in the boxes below is information about some of the main ways that tenancies can end.  We also have an article here.

These rules will be changed somewhat by the Renters Rights Act 2025 when stage 1 comes into force on 1 May 2026.

Note that if you are not a Landlord Law member, or have a Basic Membership, some of the links will not work for you.  To join click here.  To upgrade your membership see here.