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Step 5 · Starting a tenancy
Tenancy agreement & written terms
Periodic tenancy; written statement of terms before it starts.
What you need to know
- New private tenancies are assured periodic tenancies: no fixed terms, no break clauses, and no Section 21.
- Give a written statement of the key terms before the tenancy begins. Use an agreement written for the post-May-2026 rules, not an old AST template.
- Clauses that conflict with the Act (rent review clauses, fixed terms) can't be enforced.
- Penalties for failing to give the required information can reach £7,000, and £40,000 if it continues.
Recent law changes
- 1 May 2026: Renters' Rights Act in force (England). Section 21 abolished; tenancies became periodic; rent increases by section 13 only; rental bidding, "No DSS" and "No children" banned; rent in advance limited; new pet request rules.
Documents for this step
We prepare it · free account
Tenancy agreement (post-May 2026)
Before the tenancy begins.
Official form
Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet
Existing tenancies: by 31 May 2026 (do it now if you missed it). Keep proof of how and when.
Source: GOV.UK: Guide to the Renters' Rights Act. Checked 31 Oct 2026. General information, not legal advice.