Brief Background to Fixed Term Tenancies

Since 2014, general needs public sector tenancies have been granted on a fixed term basis. The tenancy expires on a fixed date set out in the tenancy agreement and there is no obligation on the landlord to grant a new tenancy beyond this date.

The aim of a fixed term tenancy is to;

• provide a natural break at which point both the landlord and the tenant may reconsider their respective positions and decide whether a new tenancy should be entered into
  
  and
  
  
• allow an opportunity to adjust the terms of the tenancy if required (e.g. a change to the rent terms or to downsize to a smaller property)

It is important to note that sheltered housing (or older persons housing) tenancies are not granted on a fixed term basis.