Do you know what happens at the end of your tenancy? Phil Spencer talks to Maxine Fothergill, ARLA Propertymark President about the things that can happen before a tenancy is terminated, including renewal options and the benefits and risks of each approach. Whichever way works for you – make sure that you have a written record of any discussions you have.
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Why watch?
What happens at the end of a fixed term tenancy
Cleaning at the end of your tenancy
What condition you should leave the property in
Getting your deposit back
Your options (e.g. rolling contract, renewing)
Alternatively, listen to the audio recording
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On 8 September 2025, MPs debated the Renters’ Rights Bill as it returned to the House of Commons for the Ping-Pong Stage — when amendments made by the House of Lords are considered. This was a crucial step in determining whether the Bill will pass to Royal Assent before the end of the year. The Commons reviewed and responded to a series of amendments, many of which reflected concerns raised by industry and campaigners. While some technical changes were accepted, the UK Government signalled its determination to press ahead with the central reforms.
For agents in England working with landlords in this specialist market, it is vital to understand the changes, the risks, and the opportunities ahead. Propertymark has been campaigning hard to ensure student housing is not undermined by reforms designed for the wider private rented sector (PRS). The loss of fixed terms is the single biggest risk for this market, and we continue to fight for workable solutions that protect the annual student lettings cycle.
The Act, now over 70 years old, gives business tenants a legal right to renew their leases in many circumstances — a framework that has faced growing criticism for being outdated and overly complex. Propertymark responded to the consultation, advocating for modernisation of the legislation to reflect the current needs of businesses. These initial recommendations come as part of a wider review focusing on how well the law is functioning for commercial property leases.
Under Part 2 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, most business tenants in England and Wales have the right to renew their tenancy when the current lease ends, with limited grounds for landlords to refuse. With 55% of UK commercial property rented, the Law Commission is consulting on whether this system remains effective for today’s commercial lease market.