The Renters’ Rights Act Is Now in Force: What Landlords Need to Do Next

After years of discussion and months since receiving Royal Assent, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is now officially in force as of 1st May 2026.

This marks a major shift in the private rented sector in England, with changes that apply to both new and existing tenancies, and that will affect all landlords.

These include: 

What You Should Have in Place Now

With the legislation now in force, landlords should ensure their agreements, processes, and day-to-day management reflect the new legal framework.

Updated Tenancy Agreements

All tenancy agreements should now reflect the move from ASTs to assured periodic tenancies (APTs). 

If you’re still using AST-based agreements, these will need to be updated to remain compliant. 

Clear Processes for Regaining Possession

With Section 21 now abolished, landlords must now follow a different legal route.

From 1st May 2026, landlords seeking possession will generally need to rely on Section 8 grounds and, where a tenant does not leave, progress matters through the courts. 

Where a valid notice was served before 1st May 2026, claims can still be progressed through the courts under transitional arrangements. 

Strong Systems for Repairs and Communication 

Tenant rights around property conditions are stricter. You should have: 

All applicants must be treated fairly, and letting practices must now align with stricter legal requirements. 

This includes: 

Required Information for Tenants

Landlords must now provide tenants with the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet (2026). 

This is a mandatory requirement and forms part of your compliance obligations when letting a property. 

What You Need to Stay On Top Of 

While the core changes are now in place, ongoing compliance will depend on how well landlords adapt their approach over time. Staying informed and proactive is key. 

Managing Periodic Tenancies 

As of 1st May 2026: 

This means landlords should prepare for: 

Tenants can now end a tenancy at any time by giving two months’ notice. 

Using the Correct Legal Grounds for Possession 

With Section 21 removed, possession must now be based on specific legal grounds.

In most cases, landlords will need to rely on Section 8 grounds (for example, rent arrears, breach of tenancy, or intending to sell the property).

Understanding how and when these grounds apply- and ensuring the correct process is followed- is key to avoiding delays or rejected claims. 

Rent Increases 

Rent increases are now more tightly controlled.

Landlords can: 

What You Can No Longer Do (or Risk Fines)

The new legislation places greater responsibility on landlords, with stricter rules and stronger enforcement. Failing to adapt could result in financial penalties or legal complications.

Decent Homes Standard (From 2035)

The Decent Homes Standard (DHS) will be extended to the private rented sector by 2035. This will apply to both private and social housing, setting a minimum standard for property conditions. The extended timeline gives landlords the opportunity to plan and invest where needed. 

Expansion to the Social Housing Sector

Later in 2026, similar tenancy reforms- including the removal of fixed-term tenancies- will be applied to the social housing sector, bringing it in line with the private rented sector. 

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Local authorities now have stronger enforcement powers under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.

Landlords who fail to comply could face: 

Landlord Checklist: Are You Compliant?

☐ Your tenancy agreements are updated to APTs  

☐ You understand and can apply Section 8 grounds  

☐ You follow the correct Section 13 process for rent increases  

☐ You only increase rent once per year  

☐ You do not accept or encourage rent bidding  

☐ Your tenant screening process is fair and non-discriminatory  

☐ You provide the required Information Sheet (2026)  

☐ You have a clear process for repairs and tenant requests  

☐ You’re prepared to manage periodic tenancies  

☐ You have a process in place for pet requests  

☐ Your documentation and record-keeping is up to date  

Need Support Navigating the Changes?

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 brings significant changes, and staying compliant can feel overwhelming.

If you’re unsure whether your property or processes meet the new requirements, Prop Home can help.