Helping you understand your obligations following the legislative changes
The Renters’ Rights Act came into effect on 1 May 2026, and landlords in the private rented sector are now required to comply with the updated rules.
This guide sets out the key changes and the practical steps you may need to take to remain compliant and continue managing your tenancies effectively.
Updated requirements
You can still regain possession of your property through the expanded Section 8 grounds. The average timeframe for a Section 8 order is typically 3–6 months, and in some cases can be resolved within a few weeks where tenants are cooperative.
While this removes a fixed end date, it does not in itself create uncertainty around tenancy duration or tenant behaviour. Government housing data shows that private renters spend an average of approximately 4.7 years in their current home*.
This suggests that periodic tenancies are unlikely to result in frequent or unexpected moves, particularly where tenants are settled and satisfied with their accommodation.
Tenants are required to provide a minimum of two months’ notice if they choose to leave. Landlords can continue to regain possession through the expanded Section 8 grounds, providing a clear and structured route to manage tenancy changes.
Rent increases can now only take place once per year and must follow the updated Section 13 process, with at least two months’ notice required.
You cannot ask tenants to offer or accept more than the advertised rent, and you may only request up to one month’s rent upfront once a tenancy agreement has been entered into.
Applicants cannot be excluded because they have children or receive benefits at any stage of the lettings process. However, you can still assess affordability, check references, and select tenants based on suitability, so rental income and property standards remain protected.
You have 28 days to consider a request and respond, and you must provide a valid reason if refusing permission.
UK research shows that 76% of landlords who let to pet-owning tenants reported no pet-related damage, and 73% did not observe increased wear and tear*. This suggests that pet-friendly lettings can be compatible with maintaining property condition and rental standards.
By 31 May 2026, your tenants should have received a government-issued information sheet explaining the changes in detail.
What’s Coming Later
PRS Database:
A national database requiring landlords to provide key safety and property information.
Landlord Ombudsman:
A mandatory service to help you resolve tenant complaints and disputes quickly and fairly.
Decent Homes Standard:
Your property must meet minimum quality and safety standards.
Awaab’s Law:
You must fix serious hazards, such as damp and mould, within strict timeframes.
For all media enquiries, contact [email protected] The contents of this document are intended for the purpose of general information and should not be relied upon as the basis for decision taking on the part of the reader. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this report at the time of writing, no liability is accepted by Chesterton UK Services Ltd for any loss or damage resulting from its use. Reproduction of this report in whole or in part is not permitted without the prior written approval of Chesterton UK Services Ltd. January 2025. If you wish to discuss how the Renters’ Rights Act might affect you and how you can prepare for it, please contact [email protected]