Long-Term Let Promised but Only a 6-Month Tenancy: What Are a Tenant’s Rights?

Summary: A tenant was promised a long-term let but was given only a six-month tenancy agreement. Under current law, landlords can require tenants to leave after the fixed term, even if a longer tenancy was verbally suggested. However, upcoming changes in legislation will offer tenants greater security in similar situations.

Background: The Tenant’s Situation

A tenant in England recently contacted the Landlord Law Blog Clinic with concerns about their tenancy. They moved into a property five months ago after responding to an advert stating it was a “long term let.” This was verbally confirmed by the letting agent. However, the tenancy agreement signed was for a fixed term of just six months.

After three months, the agent informed the tenant that the landlord was considering selling the property. The tenant initially struggled to obtain the landlord’s contact details, which the agent withheld for several weeks before finally providing an email address. When the tenant expressed disappointment about the short-term nature of the tenancy, the landlord stated that they had instructed the agent the let was only for six months.

Current Legal Position on Fixed-Term Tenancies

Under current legislation, if a tenant signs a fixed-term tenancy agreement—such as one lasting six months—the landlord is entitled to require the tenant to vacate the property once that term ends. Should the tenant remain beyond this period without agreement, the landlord may use the Section 21 no-fault eviction process to regain possession.

Therefore, despite any verbal assurances of a long-term let, the landlord’s legal right is limited to the terms of the signed tenancy agreement. The contractually agreed six-month fixed term is binding, and the landlord can insist on possession at the end of that period.

That said, if the tenant acted to their detriment based on the promise of a longer tenancy—such as turning down other housing offers—and can provide clear evidence that the agent was aware of this reliance, there may be a possible defence against possession proceedings. However, such cases are complex and require strong proof.

Complaints Against Letting Agents for Misrepresentation

Given the agent’s apparent misrepresentation of the tenancy length, tenants may have grounds to complain to the agent’s Property Redress Scheme. Misleading tenants about the nature of the tenancy can result in compensation or other remedies through these schemes.

Landlords and agents should be aware that accurate and transparent communication about tenancy terms is essential to avoid disputes and complaints. Misrepresentation not only damages tenant trust but can also lead to regulatory consequences.

Upcoming Changes Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025

Significant changes will come into effect on 1 May 2026 with the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. Under this new legislation, tenants will enjoy greater security during the first year of their tenancy.

For instance, although landlords will retain a ground for possession if they wish to sell the property, this cannot be invoked within the first 12 months of the tenancy. Additionally, landlords must provide tenants with four months’ written notice using a prescribed form. This will reduce the likelihood of short-term lets being imposed unexpectedly and improve tenant stability.

Tenants’ Right to Landlord Contact Details

It is important to note that tenants have a legal right to receive their landlord’s contact details. Under section 1 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords or their agents must provide this information. Failure to do so is a criminal offence.

In the case discussed, the agent’s initial refusal to provide the landlord’s contact details was unlawful and could form part of a complaint to the Property Redress Scheme. Landlords and agents should ensure they comply promptly with such requests to avoid legal repercussions.

Implications for Landlords and Agents

This case highlights the importance for landlords and letting agents to clearly communicate tenancy terms and avoid verbal promises that contradict the written agreement. Transparency helps prevent disputes and protects professional reputations.

With the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 on the horizon, landlords should prepare for increased tenant protections, particularly regarding notice periods and possession grounds. Agents must also ensure compliance with legal requirements, including providing landlord contact details promptly and accurately representing tenancy terms.

For landlords seeking further guidance on tenancy agreements, possession procedures, and compliance with new legislation, resources are available at Landlord Association.

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Discover tenants’ rights when promised a long-term let but given only a six-month tenancy. Understand current eviction laws, agent misrepresentation, and upcoming changes under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.

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Tenant Rights: Long-Term Let Promised but Only a 6-Month Tenancy | UK Landlord Guide