Moving out if you're a protected tenant

If you've made your home with us for many years under an older, protected tenancy, this guide is simply here in case you ever decide to move on, perhaps to be nearer family or to a home that suits you better. There's nothing you need to do unless you choose to.

Take your time

A protected tenancy carries strong rights, so it's worth being sure of your next home before you give notice. Once a valid notice has been given, it can't simply be taken back. You're always welcome to talk it over with us first. For free, independent advice, Shelter and Citizens Advice can help, and Age UK's advice line is free on 0800 678 1602.

Giving notice

• In writing. A notice to end your tenancy must be in writing (Protection from Eviction Act 1977, section 5). A letter or an email to admin@rlancaster.co.uk is fine. Keep a copy.
• At least four weeks, and often more. Four weeks is the legal minimum (Protection from Eviction Act 1977, section 5). If your tenancy has carried on after a fixed term ended, and your original agreement didn't say how much notice to give, the law usually needs three months' notice (Rent Act 1977, section 3). Please ask us before you give notice, and we'll help you work out the right date.
• The right day. Shelter's guidance is that a notice should end on the first or last day of a rental period, so usually on your rent day or the day before. If you're not sure of the date, ask us.
• Share your tenancy? If someone else is named on it, please talk it through with them first, as your notice can affect them too.
• Want a different date? Just talk to us. A tenancy can also end by agreement between you and your landlord.

Any deposit

The government deposit protection schemes are for assured tenancies, so they don't cover a protected tenancy. If you paid a deposit when your tenancy began, it's dealt with under the terms of your agreement. It helps to mention it when you give notice.

The final details

• Read your gas and electricity meters on the day you leave and give the readings to your suppliers (Citizens Advice).
• Give us, and your suppliers, a forwarding address, so final letters and bills reach you.
• Return all your keys.

Find out more

• Regulated tenancies (Shelter England)
• Protection from Eviction Act 1977, section 5 (legislation.gov.uk)
• Rent Act 1977, section 3 (legislation.gov.uk)
• Housing options in later life (Age UK)
• Moving home: your energy supply (Citizens Advice)