A planned absence is not abandonment. Keep the tenant's right to occupy and privacy intact while addressing practical risks such as leaks, security and unused water outlets.
Agree what information is needed
- Ask for the expected return period and a reliable contact for urgent issues.
- Check whether the agreement requires notification of a longer absence.
- Avoid demanding unrelated details about the person's private travel or medical circumstances.
Plan property care
- Check insurer conditions for unoccupancy and agree any necessary access lawfully.
- Consider heating, frost, leaks and water-system controls with appropriate advice.
- Make clear who will respond if a neighbour reports a problem.
Review changes
- Ask the tenant to update material changes to the expected return.
- Keep rent and services managed under the existing agreement.
- If contact is lost, investigate the facts rather than jumping to an abandonment conclusion.
Example: a six-week work trip
A fictional tenant reports a temporary work assignment. Agree emergency contact and any necessary inspections with proper notice and consent. The landlord should not use the absence to conduct unannounced visits or offer the home to someone else.
What to do
- Record the expected absence and safe contact arrangements.
- Check relevant contract and insurance conditions.
- Agree any lawful inspection or property-care plan.
Evidence to keep
- Tenant notification and agreed access or contact arrangements.
- Insurance requirements and completed checks.
Sources and guidance
- Standard occupation contracts: guidance on the termsWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Assured periodic tenancies: landlord guideUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Access for repairs and inspectionsScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Legionella and landlords’ responsibilitiesHealth and Safety Executive · checked 20 October 2026