Save the date - The Renters' Rights Act comes into force 1st May 2026
The Renters Rights Act arrives on 1 May 2026 and it will reshape how the private rented sector operates. Every landlord will face new rules, new duties and stronger enforcement. Understanding what changes and how it affects your property management is essential to staying compliant and protected.
The Renters Rights Act explained for landlords
The Renters Rights Act is the most significant reform of the private rented sector in decades. It introduces new rules that increase tenant security while raising the expectations placed on landlords. Councils will also have stronger powers and a clear duty to enforce the regulations. If you own or manage a rental property, you must be ready for these changes well before they go live.
Section 21 will be abolished
From 1 May 2026 you will no longer be able to remove a tenant without a specific legal reason. Section 21 no fault notices will disappear. Every eviction will need to rely on updated Section 8 grounds and you will need clear evidence to support the reason you are giving. This increases the importance of accurate records, a strong paper trail and consistent management.
Fixed term agreements will end
All new tenancies will begin as periodic agreements. They will continue month to month from day one. This gives tenants greater flexibility but it also means you must keep tighter control over maintenance, inspections and documentation. You will no longer rely on a fixed term ending to review your plans for the property.
Rent increases will follow stricter rules
From 1 June 2026 the Righter Rent measures introduce a more structured process for rent reviews. The aim is to prevent sudden or unreasonable jumps in rent. As a landlord you will need to follow the correct procedure every time and give proper notice through the approved route. Failure to do so could lead to challenge or enforcement action.
Rent increases will follow stricter rules
From 1 June 2026 the Righter Rent measures introduce a more structured process for rent reviews. The aim is to prevent sudden or unreasonable jumps in rent. As a landlord you will need to follow the correct procedure every time and give proper notice through the approved route. Failure to do so could lead to challenge or enforcement action.
Clearer rules around pets
Tenants will have the right to request permission for a pet and you will need a reasonable justification if you want to refuse. The days of blanket refusals will end. Expect more requests and ensure your insurance and tenancy terms are updated to reflect this shift.
Stronger protection against discrimination
The Act reinforces fair access to rental homes. Asking applicants for unnecessary personal details or attempting to select tenants based on non financial criteria will bring far greater risk. Councils will be able to investigate and issue significant penalties.
Enforcement will be stricter and more proactive
Local authorities will receive increased funding along with new investigatory powers. They can request documents, demand access to records and carry out inspections more frequently. Fines are expected to begin at around seven thousand pounds and can reach up to forty thousand pounds for repeated or serious breaches. Rent Repayment Orders can now cover up to twenty four months of rent.
This is not an area where you can rely on guesswork or informal habits. Councils will have a duty to enforce and the financial risk of non compliance is substantial.
What landlords should do now
The landlords who cope best with major changes are the ones who prepare early. Ask yourself a few direct questions.
- Are your records complete and easy to evidence
- Are your processes accurate and consistent
- Would your current approach stand up to a council inspection
- Do your tenancy terms reflect the incoming rules
- Are you confident you can prove compliance if challenged
If the answer is not a clear yes, now is the time to make adjustments.
How we can support you
These changes are substantial but you do not have to manage them alone. We have followed the legislation from the beginning and we have been updating our systems, documents and compliance checks in preparation. If you want clarity on what the Act means for your property or you would like a full compliance review, we can walk you through everything that needs updating so you are ready well before the Act comes into force.
