New Year - New Changes

Major Legislation Changes You Need To Know About:

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, meaning it officially became law at that point.

The first phase of the Act comes into force on 1 May 2026. This is when the most significant reforms begin.

Key Changes You Need to Know

End of Section 21 (‘No-Fault’) Evictions

  • Section 21 evictions will end from 1 May 2026

  • Any Section 21 notice served before this date must reach court by 31 July 2026

  • From 1 May 2026, all evictions must rely on specific statutory grounds (such as selling, moving in, rent arrears, or anti-social behaviour)

Tenancy Structure Changes

  • All tenancies will become periodic

  • Fixed-term tenancies will no longer apply

  • There will be no fixed end date to a tenancy

Rent Increase Rules

  • Rent increases limited to one increase every 12 months

  • Tenants will have the right to challenge rent increases

Enhanced Tenant Rights

  • Requests to keep pets must be considered fairly

  • Tenants may leave with two months’ notice from day one

  • It will be unlawful to reject applicants due to:

    • Receipt of benefits

    • Having children

  • Rent bidding wars will be banned

  • Landlords may request no more than one month’s rent in advance

Stronger Enforcement Powers

  • Fines of up to £7,000, increasing to £40,000 for serious or repeat breaches

  • Expanded rent repayment orders

  • Increased funding for councils to strengthen investigations and enforcement

Upcoming and Future Changes

  • Introduction of a Private Landlord Ombudsman for dispute resolution

  • Rollout of a national landlord and property database next year

  • Work underway to apply the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector

  • Longer-term plans to achieve EPC rating C by 2030 (unless exempt)

For full details of the legislation and a comprehensive overview of the changes being implemented, please click the link below.

If you’re a landlord who needs guidance or practical support in understanding and implementing the Renters Reform Bill, we’re here to help. Rental Asset Management is a bespoke letting and property management agency run by landlords, for landlords, giving us first-hand insight into the challenges and responsibilities you face. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions — our approach is tailored to protect your investment while keeping you fully compliant in an evolving regulatory landscape.

We are also proud members of Propertymark, the UK’s leading professional body for property agents, meaning we are regulated and committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, compliance, and best practice. If you’d like expert support, simply click the button below or contact us via the enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch.

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