Lease and Tenancy Renewal: Know Your Deadlines
Lease renewals have deadlines. Miss them and you may find yourself with less negotiating power, higher rent, or a notice to vacate.
UK: Assured Shorthold Tenancies
Most private rentals in England and Wales are ASTs, typically 6 or 12 months initially.
At the end of the fixed term:
- You can sign a new fixed-term agreement
- You can continue on a "periodic" (rolling) tenancy
- Either party can end the tenancy with proper notice
Periodic tenancy: Continues month-to-month (or week-to-week). Gives flexibility but less security. Landlord can increase rent with one month's notice.
Notice periods:
- Tenant: Usually one month
- Landlord: Currently two months (Section 21), changing under new legislation
Rent increases: During a fixed term, rent can only increase if the contract allows it. On a periodic tenancy, landlord can propose increases with proper notice.
US: Lease Agreements
Leases vary significantly by state and even city.
Typical structure:
- 12-month lease with option to renew
- Converts to month-to-month after initial term
- Rent can increase at renewal
Notice requirements:
- Usually 30-60 days before lease end
- Check your specific lease and local laws
- Some cities have rent control limiting increases
Breaking a lease: Usually means paying a penalty (often 1-2 months rent) or forfeiting your deposit.
Canada
Provincial tenancy laws vary considerably.
Ontario:
- Most leases convert to month-to-month automatically
- Rent increases capped annually (guideline rate)
- Landlord needs valid reason to evict
BC:
- Similar protections to Ontario
- Rent increase limits apply
Alberta:
- Fewer tenant protections
- No rent control
- Check your specific lease terms
Australia
State-based tenancy laws.
General pattern:
- Fixed-term leases (6-12 months typical)
- Convert to periodic after fixed term
- Notice periods vary by state (typically 14-28 days for tenant)
What to Track
60 days before lease end:
- Decide if you want to renew
- Research market rates
- Begin negotiation if needed
30 days before lease end:
- Finalise renewal or give notice
- Sign new agreement if renewing
- Begin moving preparations if leaving
Add lease renewal to your tasks. Confirm it when sorted, and we'll remind you when it's time to think about it again.