Tenants, are you on a fixed-term or periodic tenancy? Know the difference

When you sign a tenancy agreement, it will usually be either fixed-term or periodic — and it’s important to know what that means for you.

Fixed-term tenancies run for a set period, such as 12 months. You can’t usually end the tenancy early unless both you and the landlord agree, or there are special circumstances under the Residential Tenancies Act. Once the term ends, the tenancy automatically becomes periodic unless notice is given within the correct timeframe (between 90 and 21 days before the end date) or a new fixed term is agreed.

Recent amendments to Tenancy Legislation make this clearer and simpler — both landlords and tenants can now give notice during that 90–21 day “window” without giving a reason.

Periodic tenancies don’t have an end date. You can stay as long as you like, provided you meet your obligations and give the right amount of notice when you want to leave (21 days). Your landlord can end a periodic tenancy with:

• 90 days’ notice without giving a reason, or
• 42 days’ notice if the property is required for the owner or their family to live in, for an employee, or if the property has been sold with vacant possession.

Understanding which type of tenancy you have helps you plan ahead — whether you’re renewing, moving, or simply want to know your rights and responsibilities.

If you’re unsure what applies to you, check your tenancy agreement or talk to your property manager.