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What is Assured shorthold tenancy (AST)?
Last verified 23 October 2026
An assured shorthold tenancy (AST) was the most common type of private tenancy in England. It could have a fixed term and let the landlord end the tenancy without giving a reason using a section 21 notice. Since 1 May 2026, new ASTs can no longer be created in England.
Why it matters to landlords
On 1 May 2026, all existing assured shorthold tenancies in England automatically became assured periodic tenancies under the Renters' Rights Act. Landlords did not need to issue new agreements, but they had to give tenants the government's information sheet by 31 May 2026, or the key terms in writing for a verbal tenancy. Any fixed end date no longer applies. A landlord cannot require more than two months' notice from a tenant who wants to leave, and needs a legal ground for possession under section 8.
Wales moved away from ASTs earlier. On 1 December 2022, existing tenancies there converted automatically into occupation contracts, and tenants are now called contract-holders. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own tenancy systems.
Example
A two year AST in Leeds was due to end on 30 September 2026. On 1 May 2026 it became an assured periodic tenancy, so the end date fell away. The tenant can stay or give notice to leave, and the landlord can only seek possession on a section 8 ground.
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