Preparing to move out
When you’re getting ready to move out of your student accommodation, it’s important to know which type of housing you live in, because the rules for ending your tenancy are different under the Renters’ Rights Act.
If you live in Purpose‑Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), your contract normally follows the academic year and ends automatically on the fixed end date. PBSA providers can continue using fixed‑term student contracts outside the standard private renting rules, which means early move‑out is usually only possible if a replacement student is found.
If you live in normal private housing, all tenancies become assured periodic tenancies from 1 May 2026. This means your tenancy automatically rolls on, and you can end it at any time by giving two months’ notice, offering more flexibility when planning your move.
If you’re living in a shared HMO with full‑time student tenants, your landlord may use the new Ground 4A to regain the property for the next group of students. This only applies if all tenants are full‑time students and the landlord has followed the required steps in advance. In 2026, there are transitional rules that allow shorter notice periods for landlords in certain cases.
Understanding whether you’re in PBSA or private housing will help you know how your tenancy ends, how much notice you need to give, and what to expect when moving out.
For further information, please visit Shelter.
Once you have confirmed your end of tenancy date, make sure you have a copy of your inventory and information on the Tenancy Deposit Scheme where your deposit is held - this will help when it comes to getting your deposit back.