What occurs when a landlord accepts rent after a lease has terminated?

When a landlord accepts rent after a lease has terminated, it typically creates a holdover tenancy. This situation arises because the landlord's acceptance of rent implies consent to continue the tenant's occupation of the property beyond the originally agreed lease term. The landlord’s acceptance of rent signifies a form of agreement, even if the previous lease has officially ended.

In a holdover tenancy, the tenant retains possession of the property, which means they can continue to occupy it while paying rent, either under the original lease terms or possibly at a new rental rate, depending on what the landlord decides. This arrangement can be month-to-month or follow some other period, but it essentially re-establishes a landlord-tenant relationship.

The other options do not accurately describe the legal consequences of accepting rent after a lease has ended. A new lease is not automatically created unless both parties explicitly agree to terms of a new lease. A tenancy at will, which allows either party to terminate the arrangement with notice, may arise depending on the conditions established, but it is typically more accurate to classify the situation as a holdover tenancy. The last option incorrectly suggests that immediate vacation is required, which contradicts the consequences of accepting rent.