Void period vs arrears: what’s the difference for cash flow?
A void is an empty property with no rent. Arrears is a tenant falling behind. Here’s the difference and why it matters for cash flow.
Published: 02/04/2026 • Last verified: 02/04/2026
The short answer
A void period is when a rental property is empty between tenants, so you receive no rent.
Arrears is when a tenant is in the property but is behind on rent payments.
Both can hurt landlord cash flow, but they’re different risks — and you often track and plan for them differently.
A tiny example
If your rent is £1,200/month:
- A one‑month void is roughly £1,200 of rent not received.
- Arrears might start as one missed payment (also ~£1,200), but can grow if the tenant falls further behind.
In both cases you may still have costs (mortgage, insurance, service charges, repairs), which is why landlords often stress‑test with a void allowance.
Helpful links
- Related calculator: /rental-yield/
- Full guide: /guides/void-periods-explained-uk-landlords/
- Full guide: /guides/buy-to-let-cashflow-vs-yield-uk/
- Glossary: /glossary/void-period/
- Glossary: /glossary/net-yield/
Sources