Which term describes a tenant's right to occupy property without a lease?

The term that describes a tenant's right to occupy property without a lease is an estate at will. This arrangement differs from traditional leases because it does not have a fixed term or a formal written agreement. Instead, it allows a tenant to occupy the property with the permission of the landlord, typically continuing until either party decides to terminate the arrangement.

An estate at will is a flexible tenancy, providing a degree of freedom for both the tenant and the landlord. The tenant can stay as long as they have the landlord's consent, and the landlord can revoke that consent at any time, often with notice. This is particularly useful in situations where a more formal lease agreement is not practical or necessary.

In contrast, periodic tenancy involves a lease with specific time periods (like month-to-month), while a sublease refers to a rental arrangement where the original tenant leases the property to someone else. Holdover tenancy occurs when a tenant remains in possession of the property after their lease has expired, typically without the consent of the landlord, which is distinct from the more amicable arrangement found in an estate at will.