The Renters' Rights Act — What Landlords Need to Know
The Renters' Rights Act introduces the biggest change to private renting in England for a generation. From 1 May 2026, new rules will apply to both new and existing private tenancies.
What Changes From 1 May 2026?
End of Section 21
No-fault evictions are abolished. Possession requires valid legal grounds.
Periodic Tenancies
All tenancies become rolling. No more fixed-term agreements.
Rent Increase Controls
Rent can only be increased once per year using the correct process.
Bidding Wars Banned
Advertised rent is the maximum. Bidding above it is prohibited.
Rent in Advance Limited
Maximum one month's rent upfront. Large advance payments are prohibited.
Discrimination Rules
Blanket bans on benefits or children are unlawful.
Pet Requests
Tenants can request pets. Landlords must consider requests fairly.
New Documentation Duties
Written information must be provided before signing from 1 May 2026.
Detailed Guides for Landlords
End of Section 21
No-fault evictions end on 1 May 2026. What landlords need to know.
Rent Increases
Rent can only be increased once per year using the statutory process.
Rent in Advance & Bidding
Bidding wars are banned. Rent in advance is restricted to one month.
Periodic Tenancies
Fixed-term tenancies are replaced by rolling periodic tenancies.
Pets
Tenants can request permission to keep a pet. Landlords must consider requests fairly.
Discrimination Rules
Blanket bans on benefit recipients or families with children are unlawful.
PRS Database & Ombudsman
Future changes planned for late 2026 — what landlords need to know.
FAQs
30 questions answered about the Renters' Rights Act.
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