The Renters’ Rights Act What You Need to Know
The Renters’ Rights Act, which became law in October 2025, brings major changes to the private rental sector. These reforms are designed to protect tenants, modernise tenancy rules, and create a fairer rental market, while providing clarity and guidance for landlords.
Our team is fully prepared to help tenants and landlords navigate these changes with confidence.
Key Changes Under the Act
1. End of “No-Fault” Evictions
•Section 21 evictions are abolished. Landlords must now have a valid reason to regain possession.
2. Periodic Tenancies
•Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies are replaced with Assured Periodic Tenancies, giving tenants more flexibility.
3. Rent Increases & Bidding Ban
•Rent can only be increased once per year with proper notice. Rental bidding above the advertised rent is prohibited, making the process fairer for tenants.
4. Deposits & Upfront Costs
•Rent paid in advance is capped at one month, reducing the initial financial burden for tenants.
5. Protections Against Discrimination & Pet Rights
•Landlords cannot refuse tenants based on family status or benefits.
Tenants have the right to request permission to keep a pet.
6. Property Standards & Compliance
•New Decent Homes Standards will be introduced to ensure safe and high-quality rental properties. Landlords must comply with stricter maintenance and safety regulations, including faster response times to issues like damp and mould.
7. Enforcement & Dispute Resolution
•A national landlord/property database and a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will support compliance and resolve disputes fairly.
Phased Implementation
Phase 1 (from 1 May 2026): Introduction of periodic tenancies, rent increase rules, ban on rental bidding, anti-discrimination protections, and pet rights.
Phase 2 (late 2026): Launch of the landlord compliance database and the new Ombudsman service.
Phase 3 (date TBC): Introduction of the Decent Homes Standard.
How We Can Help
For Tenants:
Guidance on tenancy rights, rent increases, and dispute resolution.
Support in navigating pet requests, deposits, and eviction protections.
For Landlords:
Advice on compliance with the new tenancy rules, rent regulations, and property standards.
Assistance in updating tenancy agreements and avoiding penalties.
For Property Management & Agents:
Full preparation for the phased implementation, ensuring your rentals are compliant and professional.
FAQs
Q: When do the new tenancy rules start?
A: Phase 1 starts on 1 May 2026, with subsequent phases following later in 2026 and beyond.
Q: Can landlords still increase rent?
A: Yes, but only once per year with proper notice using the Section 13 process.
Q: Are tenants allowed pets?
A: Yes, tenants can request permission, and landlords must provide a reasonable response.
Next Steps
Tenants: Review your tenancy agreements and understand your rights.
Landlords: Audit your properties and update contracts to comply with the new rules.
Contact Us: Our experts are here to guide you through every change to ensure a smooth transition.
