Updated October 2026
In short: In a joint tenancy, everyone is "jointly and severally" liable for the whole rent, so one person moving out doesn't end their responsibility on its own. The cleanest solution is usually for the landlord to agree a new tenancy with the people staying, plus any replacement, with the deposit re-registered to match. Since 1 May 2026, most tenancies in England are periodic, and tenants give two months' notice to end one, so how notice is served matters.
| Option | How it works | Best when |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement tenant | Leaving tenant finds someone; landlord references them and a new tenancy is signed | Remaining tenants want to keep the property and the room filled |
| Remaining tenants take over | Landlord agrees a new tenancy with fewer tenants | Remaining tenants can afford the rent and pass referencing |
| Whole tenancy ends | Notice ends the tenancy for everyone; those who want to stay agree a new one | No one wants to stay, or the landlord wants a fresh start |
| Leaving tenant just moves out | Nothing formal happens | Not recommended: they stay liable for rent and damage |
For the tenant who's leaving
- Tell your co-tenants and the landlord in writing as early as possible
- Don't stop paying your share until a new arrangement is signed
- Agree how your share of the deposit will be repaid, usually by the incoming tenant
- Update your address for council tax, utilities and your bank
For the tenants staying
- Check you can afford the full rent without the person leaving
- Ask the landlord to confirm in writing who the tenants are going forward
- Make sure a fresh inventory or check is done if the tenancy changes
Landlords: doing it properly
- Reference any incoming tenant, including right to rent
- Document the change with a new tenancy or a deed of surrender and new grant
- Re-protect the deposit and serve new prescribed information
- Update the inventory and check-in report
- Update council tax and licensing records where needed
How Fraser Bond helps
- Finding and referencing a replacement tenant
- Drafting the paperwork to change a joint tenancy
- Handling deposit transfers and re-protection
- Ongoing management so changes are handled smoothly
Frequently asked questions
Can I be removed from a tenancy without the others agreeing?
Not usually. Changes need the landlord and remaining tenants to agree, or the tenancy to end.
Am I liable for rent after I move out?
Yes, until the tenancy ends or is replaced. Joint tenants are liable for the whole rent.
How is the deposit split?
The scheme repays the deposit when the tenancy ends. If it continues, tenants usually settle shares privately with the incoming tenant.
Related guides
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