Tenancies granted before 15th January 1989

These tenancies will probably be covered under the old "Rent Acts" which give more protection than assured shorthold tenancies, (although certain types of tenancies, such as agricultural, educational or holiday lettings are excluded).

If a tenant's tenancy is brought to an end they will still continue as a "statutory tenant" if they remain in occupation and it may be harder for the landlord to remove them.

A landlord must start court proceedings to obtain a possession order, but before doing so must serve a notice to quit on the tenant to end the original "contractual tenancy".

The notice to quit must be in writing and give at least 4 weeks notice, unless the tenancy agreement itself provides for a different notice period, (but this must not be less than 4 weeks).

The notice should also include information for the tenant about their rights. If the tenant leaves the property after their tenancy has been brought to an end they lose their "Rent Act" protection.