Ending fixed term tenancies

Our Experts Answer:

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, a fixed term tenancy cannot be ended by either party giving notice to terminate the contract before the agreed end date.

Fixed-term tenancies can only be ended early: • by mutual agreement between all the people on the agreement (the landlord and all tenants), or • if the property undergoes a mortgagee sale, or • in certain circumstances, by Order of the Tenancy Tribunal. Where a landlord and tenant(s) agree to terminate a fixed term tenancy early (including any terms and conditions agreed to), the details of that agreement should be recorded in writing, preferably on the tenancy agreement.

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