An AST was the default private residential tenancy in England and Wales, typically 6 or 12 months fixed term and then periodic. The Renters' Rights Act took effect on 1 May 2026: every existing AST converted to an open-ended periodic tenancy, no new ASTs can be created, and Section 21 no-fault eviction is abolished.
Also known as
Assured Shorthold Tenancy
Related lettings terms
More from this category
Section 21
The no-fault eviction notice used by landlords, being abolished.
Section 8
Grounds-based possession notice for breach of tenancy.
Service charge
Annual fee to cover shared-area maintenance in apartment buildings.
Tenant in Situ
A property sold with an existing tenant in place.
Void
Period when a property is empty between tenancies.
Article 4
Council direction restricting conversion of homes to HMOs.
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