Major reforms to the private-rented sector came into effect on 1 May 2026, through the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.

The aim of these reforms is to provide greater stability and security for private renters.

They give stronger protection against unfair eviction, and greater transparency on fees, rent increases and tenancy terms.

The act introduced new rights and responsibilities for landlords, letting agents and private renters.

The guidance below will help landlords, tenants and housing professionals better understand the changes.

• Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act [GOV.UK]
• Changes for private tenants [Shelter England]
• Guidance for landlords [GOV.UK]
• Implementation roadmap for the Renters’ Rights Act [GOV.UK]

We are engaging with local communities to give tenants and landlords the advice and support they need and will continue to do so.

Contact us if you have any questions about the Renters’ Rights Act or any other tenancy relation issues.

Main changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act

• Illegal eviction and harassment: if you have been pressured to leave your home or evicted without proper legal process, this may be unlawful.
• Section 21 ‘no-fault’ eviction notices have been abolished – landlords must now issue a Section 8 notice, providing a valid legal reason to evict a tenant.
• Landlords must provide a written statement of terms for all new tenancies since 1 May 2026 – if you have not received one, this could be a breach of your rights.
• Changes to tenancy types:
  • Fixed-term tenancies are replaced with periodic (rolling) tenancies.
  • You can leave at any time with two months’ notice.
  • You can remain in the property until you choose to leave, a valid notice is served, or a court grants possession.
• Rent in advance rules: landlords can only request one month’s rent in advance, and they cannot require payment before an agreement is signed.
• Rent increases are limited to once per year under Section 13 and must reflect market rate. Landlords must give at least two months’ notice and use the correct form – read the government’s guide to rent increases for assured periodic tenancies.
• Rental bidding ban: landlords cannot request ‘best and final offers’ or encourage offers above the advertised rent.
• Protection from discrimination: it is illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants for having children or receiving benefits.
• Right to request a pet: you have the right to request a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse this request.

Information for landlords

Information sheet: act by 31 May

For each tenancy that started before 1 May 2026, you must give your tenants the government’s Renters’ Rights Act information sheet by 31 May 2026.

This is to ensure they are fully informed of their rights and the changes introduced by the new legislation.

Failure to comply with this requirement can result in a fine of up to £7,000. We strongly recommend that you review your current processes and ensure that you provide all required information to your tenants.