Renters' Rights Act Guide for Landlords

Key milestones in the Renters' Rights Act

27 December 2025

Local council powers start

Local councils gain enhanced powers to investigate, inspect, and enforce housing standards against rogue landlords.

1 May 2026

Renters’ Rights Act phase 1 takes effect

Phase 1 live on 1 May 2026, introducing a range of tenancy reforms.

Late 2026

Further enhancements to be rolled out.

Renters' Rights Act briefings

Understanding the key changes

Renter's Rights Bill FAQs

What is the Renters' Rights Act?

The Renters' Rights Act introduces significant reforms to the private rented sector, affecting tenancy structures, possession procedures, rent reviews and landlord responsibilities. It represents one of the most substantial changes to residential lettings legislation in recent years.

How does the Renters' Rights Act affect landlords?

The legislation changes a number of long-established practices within the private rented sector. Landlords must understand how the new rules affect tenancy management, possession grounds, rent reviews, compliance requirements and their ongoing obligations.

What has replaced Section 21?

The abolition of Section 21 means landlords can no longer use a no-fault notice to regain possession of a property. Instead, possession must be sought using the statutory grounds available under the legislation, with the appropriate evidence and notice requirements.

Can landlords still increase the rent?

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Yes. Landlords can continue to review and increase rents, but any changes must follow the legal process established under the new framework. Tenants also have the right to challenge increases they believe to be excessive.

How do periodic tenancies work under the new system?

The legislation replaces traditional fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies with periodic tenancies. Under this structure, tenancies continue on an ongoing basis until the tenant chooses to leave or the landlord establishes a valid ground for possession.

Will landlords be required to accept pets?

Tenants have a strengthened right to request permission to keep pets within a rental property. Requests must be considered reasonably, and landlords can only refuse where there is a legitimate basis for doing so.

What is the Landlord Ombudsman?

The legislation introduces a requirement for private landlords to join an approved ombudsman scheme. The scheme provides an independent route for resolving complaints and disputes relating to tenancy management and landlord conduct.

Where can landlords find guidance on the Renters' Rights Act?

The legislation covers a wide range of subjects, including possession reform, tenancy structures, rent reviews, property standards and compliance requirements. This resource hub provides practical guidance on the key provisions and their implications for landlords.