From 30 January 2025, new tenancy rules are in place that affect how both fixed-term and periodic tenancies can be ended. Landlords can once again give 90 days’ notice without needing a reason, while tenants now have a shorter notice period too. Here’s a clear look at what’s changed.
Understanding Fixed-Term and Periodic Tenancies
Fixed-Term Tenancy: Has a set end date. If neither party gives valid notice between 90 and 21 days before the term ends, it automatically becomes a periodic tenancy.
Periodic Tenancy: Has no end date and continues until either the landlord or tenant gives proper notice.
Key Changes in 2025
- 90-day no-cause termination has returned, allowing landlords to end a periodic tenancy without needing to provide a reason.
- 42-day notice periods still apply for specific grounds such as the landlord moving in, the property being sold, or housing an employee.
- Tenants now give 21 days’ notice (reduced from 28) when ending a periodic tenancy.
- Fixed-term agreements convert to periodic unless either party gives notice between 90 and 21 days before the end date.
- Landlords can end a fixed-term tenancy at expiry without needing to provide a reason, as long as they give notice in that correct window.
Extra Safeguards for Tenants
Retaliatory notices can be challenged in the Tenancy Tribunal if they are given in response to tenants asserting their rights, such as asking for repairs.
Family violence protections allow a tenant to leave a tenancy with only 2 days’ notice if they provide evidence, without financial penalty.
Updated Notice Periods at a Glance
Instead of presenting the new notice periods in a table, here’s a detailed breakdown in plain text for easier reading:
- Periodic tenancy – no cause: Landlords must give 90 days’ notice if they want to end a tenancy without a specific reason. This restores flexibility but gives tenants three months to plan their next move.
- Periodic tenancy – specific grounds: If the landlord or a family member plans to move in, if the property is sold requiring vacant possession, or if it is needed for employee housing (where this is written into the agreement), the landlord may give 42 days’ notice. This shorter timeframe reflects the urgency of these situations.
- Periodic tenancy – other grounds: For reasons like major renovations, demolition, or change of use, landlords must give 90 days’ notice. These grounds must be genuine and supported by clear evidence if challenged.
- Fixed-term tenancy expiry: Both landlords and tenants have a 90–21 day window before the tenancy ends to give notice if they don’t want it to roll over. If no one acts, the tenancy automatically becomes periodic.
- Tenant ending periodic tenancy: Tenants must now give 21 days’ notice instead of 28. This shorter timeframe provides greater flexibility when planning a move.
This format ensures both tenants and landlords can clearly see their obligations and rights without needing to read through legal documents.
What This Means for You
For Landlords: Review tenancy dates and make sure any notices are served in the correct timeframe. Keep tenancy agreements up to date, especially if you want the option of the 42-day notice for employee housing.
For Tenants: Be clear about your notice obligations, and know your protections if you face a retaliatory termination or are affected by family violence.
Conclusion
These changes give landlords more flexibility while maintaining important safeguards for tenants. The most important thing is timing — serving notice correctly and within the right window helps both sides avoid unnecessary conflict.
