The Renters Rights Act 2025 – Landlords, What You Need to Know.

The Renters Rights Act is now in force, with most provisions set to take effect from 1 May 2026. Landlords, it is crucial that you are prepared.  Here is a brief overview of what you need to know to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

The Act introduces substantial new obligations for private landlords and grants significant rights to tenants. If you let property in the private rented sector under an assured or assured shorthold tenancy, these changes directly affect your responsibilities and processes.

Abolishment of Assured Shorthold Tenancies:

From 1 May 2026, assured shorthold tenancies will no longer exist. All current assured shorthold tenancies will automatically convert to Assured Periodic Tenancies, giving renters greater security. As a landlord, you must adapt to these new arrangements and ensure your tenancy records reflect these changes.

Changes to Fixed Term Tenancies:

After 1 May 2026, you will not be able to offer assured tenancies with fixed terms or set end dates. All tenancies will become rolling (periodic), requiring ongoing management and communication with tenants.

Rent Increases:

You may no longer include rent review clauses in tenancy agreements. From 1 May 2026, any existing rent review clause will cease to apply. Rent increases must be made through section 13 of the Housing Act 1988, meaning you can only raise rent once per year, with at least two months’ written notice to the tenant. Increases must not exceed the open market rent, preventing unfair rent hikes.

Section 21 Notices Abolished:

Landlords will no longer be able to bring possession proceedings to evict tenants without a reason under Section 21. Instead, you must have a valid legal ground, such as rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or property damage to seek eviction. There is however a new ground a landlord can rely on if they plan to sell the property – but there are limitations.   The Section 8 Notice procedure must be followed.

Information Sheet Requirement:

The government has produced an information sheet explaining the Renters Rights Act for tenants. You must provide this sheet to your tenants by 31 May if the tenancy:

• Is an assured or assured shorthold tenancy
• Was created before 1 May 2026
• Has a wholly or partly written record of terms (including a written tenancy agreement)

Failure to supply this information sheet could result in fines up to £7,000 for landlords or agents. This requirement does not apply to lodgers, but all named tenants must receive the sheet.

What now:

The Renters Rights Act introduces sweeping reforms for landlords. Review your current tenancy agreements, update your processes, and ensure you provide the required information to tenants. Act now to avoid costly penalties and to maintain strong relationships with your tenants, staying informed and compliant is essential for successful property management.

Now is the perfect time to ensure that you have all the paperwork in order. Our dispute resolution lawyers can audit your tenancy documents to ensure that you stay the right side of the law.

 

Disclaimer: This article is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.