ACT 2025
The Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect on 1 May 2026 and may change how your current tenancy works as well as how new tenancies are set up. This guide aims to provide a simple overview of the key changes and explains what they may mean for you as a tenant.
Key Changes | From 1st May 2026
– All assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) will automatically become periodic.
– Your rent can only be reviewed once a year.
– There will be no fixed end date, so you don’t have to worry about your tenancy “running out”.
– You can stay in your home as long as you choose or leave with two months’ notice.
– Your landlord can regain possession of your home only for valid Section 8 reasons.
– Rent increases will be limited to market rents.
– Any rent increase must follow the updated Section 13 process.
– Your landlord must give at least two months’ notice of any rent increase.
– You cannot be asked for or offer more than the advertised rent.
– Landlords may only request up to one month’s rent upfront, after entering into a tenancy agreement.
– The changes under the Act do not affect deposits. All existing deposits will remain protected in current government-approved schemes, while all new tenancies will continue to follow the usual caps and must be placed in government-approved schemes within 30 days of receipt (up to £50,000 annual rent: max 5 weeks; above £50,000: max 6 weeks).
– Landlords may not treat you unfairly because you have children or receive benefits.
– Landlords must consider your request and respond within 28 days.
– Your landlord will still be able to decline the request if they have valid reasons.
– Where you are looking to move, landlords may still reject your application for a property if you have a pet.
– Existing assured shorthold tenancies: By 31 May 2026, your landlord will provide you with a new government-issued information sheet explaining all changes in detail.
– New assured tenancies: If you are due to move into a new property on or after 31 May 2026, your tenancy agreement will have to be in writing and include specific prescribed information as set out by the government.
What’s Coming Later
PRS Database:
All landlords and rental properties will need to be registered on a national database with key safety and property information.
Landlord Ombudsman:
Landlords will need to sign up to a new service to help resolve disputes with you fairly and quickly.
Decent Homes Standard:
All rental properties will need to meet minimum quality and safety standards.
Awaab’s Law:
Landlords will be required to fix serious hazards, such as damp and mould, within strict timeframes.
What You Need to Do Now
– Ensure you know what type of tenancy agreement you are on and seek clarity if unsure.
– Once received, review the new information sheet from your landlord.
– Understand your rights around rent increases, eviction, pets, and discrimination.
– Keep copies of tenancy agreements, rent receipts, and safety certificates.
– Stay informed about PRS Database registration and upcoming standards.
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]