UK Landlord Forum / Life

Hi All
I have quite a few properties throughout the Leeds area, and was ideally looking to rent them all to either the local council, or to housing associations.  However, the only lease length on offer, that I can find, seems to be a maximum of 3 to 5 years.  Ideally, I was looking to achieve a far longer lease term, around 20 years or more.  Or, a shorter term but renewable, from 7 years say.
I'd appreciate any feedback from other landlords that have had this experience, maybe leased their own properties in this way?  Does anyone perhaps have any contact within the housing association sector, that may be able to help?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Nicholas Moon

One of my properties has been rented by a charity HA for around 7 years now.They find places for vulnerable adults,supported by visiting carers.It has always been standard AST/periodic tenancies,although they did approach me last year about possible 5 year leasing.However,several of the experts on here sounded a note of caution when I asked about it.Apart from anything else,anything longer than 3 years becomes a commercial lease.I really can't imagine why you would want all your properties used for such a purpose? 20 years does sound very restrictive to all concerned .Have you been experiencing problems with standard private tenants,and think this will offer security? Not sure about that!