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THE RENTERS’ RIGHTS ACT IS NOW LAW – MAJOR CHANGES START 1 MAY 2026
The Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025 and is now law.
We have put together this important update to help you understand the main points set out in the Act.
With offices in Westminster, Chelsea, Fulham and Nine Elms, Garton Jones is here to support our landlords and tenants through these changes.
Key Changes in the Act
End of Section 21 No-Fault Evictions:
From 1 May 2026, landlords can only regain possession using updated Section 8 grounds.
All Tenancies Become Periodic:
Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies are abolished. All new tenancies will be periodic from the start.
Rent Increases Limited to Once a Year:
Rent can only be increased once per year via a formal Section 13 notice. Tenants can challenge excessive increases at tribunal.
Right to Request a Pet:
Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet.
No Rental Bidding:
The advertised rent is final — bidding above the advertised rent is banned.
Anti-Discrimination Rules:
Landlords cannot discriminate against tenants with children or those receiving benefits.
Mandatory PRS Database & Redress Scheme (late 2026):
Landlords must register themselves and their properties. Fines for non-compliance can reach £40,000.
Decent Homes Standard & Awaab’s Law:
These will be extended to the private rented sector in later phases.
Key Implementation Dates
1 May 2026 – Main tenancy reforms begin (end of Section 21, periodic tenancies, rent limits, pet rights, etc.)
Late 2026 – PRS Database and Landlord Redress Scheme rollout
2027+ – Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law extended to private rentals
How Garton Jones Can Help
We have been preparing for these changes for months and are ready to support both landlords and tenants with compliance, registration, tenancy updates, and clear advice.
If you have any questions, please reach out to a member of our team who would be happy to provide you with more information.
