Both you and your landlord must give the correct notice in order to bring the tenancy to an end. Just as your landlord can't throw you out on the street overnight, you can't simply walk away from the tenancy if you don't want to live there anymore.

You will usually have to give your landlord a minimum amount of four weeks' notice - this should be in writing.  You will have to give your landlord more notice if you've lived in the property for 5 years or longer.

• My tenancy is for a fixed period
• What if only one tenant wants to end the tenancy?

My tenancy is for a fixed period

Check your tenancy agreement for the amount of notice you have to give. If you are renting your accommodation for a fixed period of time, you might not be allowed to move out before the fixed period ends.

If you don’t end your tenancy formally you may still have to pay rent for the remainder of the tenancy term. Seek advice if in this situation.

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What if only one tenant wants to end the tenancy?

If you have signed a tenancy agreement with another person or persons, you are considered to be a joint tenant.

If only one joint tenant gives a valid notice to quit, the tenancy will be ended for all tenants who signed the agreement. The remaining tenant(s) won't be allowed to live at the property.

An adviser can examine your options and help you work out the best way to end your tenancy early.

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