The Renters’ Rights Act 2025: A New Era of Opportunity for Landlords

What is the Renters’ Rights Act 2025?

The Renters’ Rights Act represents one of the biggest reforms to the private rented sector in England in decades. From 1 May 2026, the way tenancies are created, managed and ended has changed. The focus is now on stronger tenant protections, clearer rules for landlords, and a more professional and transparent rental market.

What changed from 1 May 2026

Section 21 has ended

Landlords can no longer use Section 21 “no-fault” evictions for private rented sector tenancies covered by the new rules. If possession is needed, landlords must use a valid legal ground. This means tenancy management, documentation and compliance are more important than ever.

Tenancies are now periodic

Assured shorthold tenancies have moved to a periodic model under the new framework. Instead of relying on fixed-term tenancy structures in the same way as before, tenancies now continue until the tenant leaves or the landlord regains possession using a valid legal ground.

Rent increase rules are tighter

The Act has introduced a more controlled approach to rent increases. Landlords need to follow the correct legal process, and the rules are intended to make rent rises fairer and more transparent for tenants. The reforms also stop rent bidding practices.

Stronger protections for tenants

The new framework includes stronger protections for households with children and for people receiving benefits. It also gives tenants the right to request a pet, with landlords expected to consider requests reasonably.

New information requirements

Landlords and letting agents must now provide tenants with the official Renters’ Rights Act information sheet. This forms part of the new legal duties introduced alongside the reforms.

What this means for landlords

For landlords, the Renters’ Rights Act creates a more regulated environment, but also encourages longer-term, well-managed tenancies. A strong compliance process, good communication, proactive property management and timely maintenance now matter even more. Landlords who stay informed and take a professional approach will be in a stronger position to manage their properties successfully under the new rules. 

Changes still being introduced in later phases

Not everything in the Act starts on 1 May 2026. Some parts of the wider reform programme are still being rolled out in later phases, including the new private rented sector database, the landlord and tenant ombudsman, and future property standards and enforcement changes. Landlords should treat this as an ongoing programme of reform rather than a single one-off change.