Periodic tenancy (rolling contract)
What it really means
A tenancy that continues month by month after the fixed term ends, often called a "rolling contract". It gives flexibility: you can usually leave with one month's notice, but the landlord can also end it or raise the rent more easily.
Context, tips & common mistakes
When a fixed term ends and you simply stay, nothing bad happens: the tenancy rolls automatically into a periodic tenancy, running month to month on the same terms — rent, deposit protection and repair obligations all continue. The belief that you must sign a renewal or become an outlaw is wrong, and renewal pressure is often about the agent's fee income (charged to the landlord now) rather than your security.
The trade-offs are symmetrical flexibility: you can leave with proper notice (commonly one rental period — check the exact wording), and rent increases and landlord notice follow their own rules on a rolling arrangement. Rolling suits the uncertain — visa timelines, job moves — while a new fixed term locks the rent and your presence in equal measure. Choose deliberately rather than signing whatever arrives, and get advice from Shelter if a 'sign or leave' ultimatum appears.