Short answer: not usually. In most cases, tenants in the UK don’t automatically get extra legal rights just because they’ve rented a property for 10 years or more. That said, there are a few exceptions and important things to understand about how tenancy rights work over time.
If you’re a landlord with a long-term tenant (someone who’s been in your property for 10 years or more) you might be asking yourself: do they now have extra rights? Can I still increase the rent? Would it be more difficult to regain possession if I needed to?
It’s a question we get all the time at J Property Management, especially from landlords who’ve built strong, stable relationships with long-term tenants. And it makes sense. When someone’s lived in a property for a decade, it’s natural to assume the law might start treating them differently.
The reality, however, is much easier than many landlords think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what landlords need to know about tenants who’ve been in place for 10 years or more.
If you’re a landlord in London looking for guidance or support with long-term tenants, feel free to reach out to us at J Property Management. We’re here to help you stay compliant and confident.
Let’s get into it…
What Actually Happens After 10 Years?
The key thing to understand is this: the length of a tenancy does not automatically change the legal rights of a tenant.
If your tenant is on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) (which most are) then they do not get extra rights just because of the length of time they’ve been renting from you. The same rules around notice periods, rent increases, and maintenance still apply, whether they’ve been in the property for one year or ten.
Why The Confusion?
There’s a common myth that tenants get “sitting tenant” rights or some form of new legal status after a certain number of years – and 10 seems to be the magic number. But the truth is, while some older tenancies do come with stronger protections, they’re pretty rare and don’t apply to the majority of private rental agreements made after 1997.
Let’s take a look at the few exceptions where long-term rentals might give tenants extra legal security.
When Tenants Do Have Extra Rights
1. Regulated Tenancies (Pre-1989)
If your tenant moved in before 15 January 1989 and the tenancy hasn’t changed since, they may fall under the Rent Act 1977.
These agreements come with:
- Rent control, through a registered “fair rent”
- Strong security of tenure – you need a valid legal reason to evict
- Succession rights, allowing the tenancy to pass to a spouse or sometimes a family member
If you’ve inherited or bought a property with a long-standing tenant in place, it’s worth checking the agreement carefully to see if these rules apply.
2. Secure Tenancies (Council or Housing Association Properties)
Secure tenancies, usually granted by local authorities or housing associations, offer near-lifetime tenancy protection. They are not common in the private sector but may occasionally come up when managing former council homes.
3. Assured Tenancies (1989–1997)
If a tenancy began between January 1989 and February 1997 and wasn’t created as an AST, it may be an assured tenancy. These give tenants more protection against eviction and may affect how much you are able to increase the rent.
What About Sitting Tenants?
You might have heard the term “sitting tenant” used in property sales. In simple terms, it refers to a tenant who stays in a property when the ownership changes hands. It doesn’t automatically mean they have more legal rights – just that their existing tenancy agreement continues under the new landlord.
The key thing to know is: sitting tenants don’t get new powers just because they’ve been there a long time. However, if they’re on a rare type of tenancy (like a regulated tenancy), that agreement can make the property harder to sell or regain possession of.
Considerations For Long-Term Tenants
While the law doesn’t change after 10 years, the relationship often does. Tenants who’ve been in a property for many years tend to know their rights and may expect a certain level of stability. You may also find they’re more willing to negotiate or stay long-term if treated fairly.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Evictions still need proper process. Even if your tenant has been in place for a decade, a valid Section 21 or Section 8 notice is still required if you want to regain possession.
- Rent increases must follow legal routes. Use the correct notice forms and be mindful of timing. Tenants can challenge excessive increases at a tribunal.
- Quiet enjoyment still applies. Long-term tenants have the same rights to privacy and peace as newer ones. Always give appropriate notice before visits.
- Maintenance stays your responsibility. As the landlord, you’re still obligated to maintain the property, no matter how long the tenant has been there.
If you’re unsure about how to handle rent reviews or potential possession with a long-term tenant, our team at J Property Management can help you handle it the right way. Just get in tough with us today using the email below.
Will the Law Change?
It might. The Renters’ Reform Bill, currently under review, is set to make big changes to the private rental market – including the end of Section 21 no-fault evictions. If this becomes law, all ASTs would automatically become periodic tenancies, giving tenants the right to stay indefinitely unless the landlord can prove grounds for possession.
These changes are designed to improve stability for tenants, but they will also make managing properties more complicated.
We’re keeping a close eye on this at J Property Management, and we’ll support all of our landlords through any legislative changes.
FAQs
Can I evict a tenant after 10 years if I want to sell the property?
Yes, you can, as long as you follow the right legal procedure and serve a valid notice. If the Renters’ Reform Bill becomes law, you’ll still be able to do this, but will need to meet new conditions.
Do long-term tenants have more rights to challenge rent increases?
Not legally. But they may be more confident in challenging rent rises, especially if they feel they’ve been loyal tenants. Follow proper procedures and keep increases fair and justifiable.
What if my tenant is refusing access after many years in the property?
Tenants are entitled to privacy, but they must allow access for maintenance and inspections with appropriate notice. If access is being denied, get in touch with us for support.
Tenant Rights After 10 Years
So, do tenants get extra rights after 10 years? In most cases, no, not legally. But it’s still important to manage long-term tenancies with care. While the law might not change, expectations often do, and disagreements with tenants can always arise when communication breaks down.
At J Property Management, we help landlords across London manage long-standing tenancies smoothly. From serving notices correctly to staying ahead of legislative changes, we offer expert, day-to-day support so you’re never left guessing.
Need help managing a long-term tenant?
Get in touch with our team today at J Property Management and let’s make sure your tenancy is working for you and your tenant.
