Q. My tenants have asked for a long fixed term, three years, as their children are at local schools and they want security. Is this a good idea?

A. Whether or not it is a good idea, fixed terms are due to be abolished when the Renters Rights Bill (which, at the time of writing, is making its way through the Parliamentary process) comes into force. This is expected to be some time before summer 2025.

When that happens, all tenancies will be converted to periodic tenancies and will in most cases run on a month-by-month basis. So, what you put in the tenancy agreement now will not (assuming the Renters Rights Bill does in fact become law) help them long term.

Q. Although my tenants pay their rent on time, I am not entirely happy with them as they do not keep the property in the condition I would like, and I get periodic complaints from neighbours about late night parties. I don’t really want to evict them now, but what will be my options once the Renters Rights Bill becomes law if I decide they have to go?