How to Write a Tenancy Agreement UK — Complete Guide (2026)
A well-drafted tenancy agreement protects both landlord and tenant, sets clear expectations, and is the foundation for a successful tenancy. Follow these steps to create a Renters' Rights Act 2025 compliant agreement for 2026.
Identify the Parties
Begin with the full legal names of the landlord(s) and all adult tenants. Include the landlord's address for service of notices — this must be a UK address. If you use a letting agent, their details can also be included.
Describe the Property and Tenancy Type
Include the full property address, property type (house, flat, room), and furnishing status, then confirm the tenancy type. Since 1 May 2026, virtually all new residential lettings in England are assured periodic tenancies under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 — they have no fixed end date and roll on from one rent period to the next. Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) and fixed terms have been abolished for new lets.
Set Out the Rent Terms
State the rent amount, how often it is paid (weekly or monthly), and the payment date (e.g. the 1st of each month). Include the payment method. Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, you cannot charge fees for late rent below the Bank of England base rate + 3%.
Include Deposit Details
State the deposit amount and which government-approved scheme (DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS) will protect it. Remember to protect the deposit and serve Prescribed Information within 30 days of receiving it. Deposits are capped at 5 weeks' rent (annual rent below £50,000) or 6 weeks' rent (£50,000+).
Set Out Obligations
Define what both parties are responsible for. Tenant obligations typically include paying rent on time, not subletting, keeping the property clean, and not making alterations. Landlord obligations include maintaining the structure and exterior, keeping installations in working order, and providing at least 24 hours' notice before entering.
Include Notice and Termination Terms
State the notice terms. Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, a tenant can end the tenancy with two months' written notice, and a landlord can only regain possession using a Schedule 2 ground via a Section 8 notice. Reference the Section 8 procedure — Section 21 no-fault eviction was abolished on 1 May 2026.
Add Optional Clauses
Consider whether to include a pet clause, a break clause (allowing either party to end early after a set period), garden maintenance responsibilities, a smoking policy, or limits on the number of occupants.
Sign and Distribute
Both the landlord and each tenant should sign and date the agreement. Each party should receive a copy. Make sure to also provide the How to Rent guide, EPC, and Gas Safety Certificate at the same time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Quick Checklist
- Landlord and tenant names and addresses
- Property address and type
- Tenancy type (assured periodic), start date, and periodic roll-on basis
- Rent amount, frequency, and payment date
- Deposit amount and protection scheme
- Notice periods for both parties
- Tenant and landlord obligations
- Utilities and council tax responsibility
- Optional: pet clause, break clause, garden maintenance
- Signed and dated by both parties