Renters’ Rights Act 2025 – Your Essential Guide
With offices in Fulham, Westminster & Pimlico, Chelsea & Belgravia, and Nine Elms & Vauxhall, Garton Jones is helping Central London landlords and tenants prepare for the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
The Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025 and will transform renting in England. Here’s what you need to know — in plain English, with clear timelines and practical advice from Garton Jones. Latest: Property Portal registration mandatory from late 2026.
Phase 1 – 1 May 2026: No-fault evictions end, all tenancies become periodic, rent caps, bidding wars banned, discrimination outlawed.
Phase 2 – Late 2026: Ombudsman + Property Portal rollout (mandatory for all landlords).
Phase 3 – 2027+: Decent Homes Standard + Awaab’s Law (post-consultation).
Key Changes for Tenants
End of ‘No-Fault’ Evictions: Section 21 gone from 1 May 2026. Landlords need a valid reason to evict.
Periodic Tenancies: All tenancies become rolling. End with 2 months’ notice — no fixed terms.
Regulated Rent Increases: Once per year only. 2 months’ notice. Tribunal challenge available — no backdating, no rent above landlord’s ask.
Decent Homes Standard: From 2027+, all rented homes must meet minimum safety & warmth standards. We’ll guide landlords on compliance (even if checks are done by specialists).
Pet Rights: Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse pets.
Ombudsman Service: Free, fast dispute resolution (Phase 2).
No More Than 1 Month Rent in Advance: From 1 May 2026.
Rental Bidding Banned: No more “best offer wins” (1 May 2026).
Discrimination Illegal: No refusal due to benefits or children (1 May 2026).
Key Changes for Landlords
Valid Grounds for Possession: Sell/move-in blocked in first 12 months. 4 months’ notice required.
Stronger Arrears Rules: Eviction only after 3 months’ arrears + 4 weeks’ notice.
Property Portal: — all landlords must sign up or face fines up to £40,000.
Court Process: Digitised + prioritised for valid claims.
Enforcement: Fines up to £40,000 for repeat breaches.
What Garton Jones is Doing
Expert Guidance: We’re fully updated and ready to advise you.
Full Compliance Support: Portal registration, tenancy updates, and clear advice on new rules.
Dedicated Help: Clear communication every step of the way.
Need Help Before 1 May 2026?
Don’t wait — get ahead of the changes. Book a free consultation with Garton Jones today.
Got questions? Contact our Renters’ Rights Act specialist at marketing@gartonjones.com or call 020 7735 1888.
Note: Law passed October 2025. Rollout starts 1 May 2026. We’ll keep this guide updated — bookmark and check back.
