maidstone.gov.uk

Ending a tenancy


There are different rules for landlords and tenants when ending a tenancy.

Giving notice as a tenant

Tenants can end a tenancy at any time by:

  • giving at least two months’ notice
  • leaving on the last day of a rent period

Giving notice as a landlord

Section 21 notices are no longer used. If a landlord wants to end a tenancy, they must:

  • use a Section 8 notice
  • give the correct notice period for the reason they are using
  • prove their case in court if the tenant does not leave

The landlord must have a valid legal reason, such as selling or moving into the property. This is called a ground for possession.

What tenants can do

If a tenant is given a possession notice or has been asked to leave, phone us on 01622 602 440. We will check if the landlord has followed the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.

A possession notice may not be valid if:

  • the landlord has not given the correct documents
  • the correct legal steps were not followed
  • the legal reason used does not apply to your situation

For more advice, you can read the Government’s Renters' Rights blog.

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