Fixed-term tenancies automatically become periodic when the fixed-term ends.

At the end of a fixed-term tenancy, if either party does not give proper written notice to not continue with the tenancy then the tenancy automatically becomes a periodic tenancy.

If you’re a landlord and choose to not continue the tenancy after the fixed term ends, you must give written notice to the tenant within the effective period, which starts on the 90th day before the fixed-term expiry and ends on the 21st day before the fixed-term expiry. the landlord does not need a reason if they decide to not continue with the tenancy. If you have a fixed-term tenancy coming to an end you have 3 options.

1. Renew or extend a fixed term

If both landlord and tenant agree, they can renew or extend the tenancy for a further fixed term. This agreement has to be in writing and signed by both parties.

Sometimes the tenancy agreement says the tenant has the right to renew the fixed-term tenancy. In this case, if the tenant wants to renew, they must tell the landlord in writing. They must do this at least 28 days before the end of the fixed term. The tenancy is then renewed for the same length of time as the original fixed term.

2. End the tenancy at the fixed-term end date

To end the tenancy at the fixed-term end date, a tenant or landlord must give notice to end the tenancy within the effective period.
If you do not give proper notice to end the fixed-term tenancy in the effective period, the tenancy becomes a periodic tenancy. You must then give the correct written notice to end a periodic tenancy.

3. Take no action

You can do nothing and let the fixed-term tenancy automatically become a periodic tenancy after the expiry of the fixed term. The fixed-term tenancy can only become a periodic tenancy if you or the landlord do not give (the correct) notice to not continue the fixed-term tenancy or agree to renew/extend the fixed term tenancy.

Ending a periodic tenancy

Ending a fixed-term early

Generally, a fixed-term tenancy can only be ended early if both the landlord and tenant agree. Both parties should be certain they want a fixed-term tenancy before signing the tenancy agreement. A fixed-term can only be ended earlier, or the term reduced, in limited situations. 

Options for ending a fixed-term early

Short fixed-term tenancies

A fixed-term tenancy of 90 days or less is a short fixed-term tenancy. If a short fixed-term tenancy comes to an end, it doesn’t automatically become a periodic tenancy. 
Written notice is not required by either party as the tenancy will end on the agreed expiry date and the tenant must move out.

About short fixed-term tenancies