🏡 Renters’ Rights Act: What Tenants Need to Know Now
The Renters’ Rights Act is now law, bringing the biggest changes to renting in a generation. Here’s a breakdown of what tenants can expect across the three rollout phases—from the end of Section 21 to new rights, protections, and national standards.
The Renters’ Rights Act has officially become law—marking one of the biggest overhauls of the private rental sector in decades. To help you stay informed, here’s a simple breakdown of what’s changing, when it’s happening, and what it means for you as a tenant.
📅 Phase 1 – From 1 May 2026
The first wave of changes arrives on 1 May 2026, including:
- All tenancies becoming periodic from day one. Any existing fixed-term tenancy will automatically switch to a rolling monthly agreement.
- Section 21 “no-fault” evictions abolished. Landlords must use strengthened Section 8 grounds with evidence.
- A cap on rent in advance to prevent large upfront payments.
- New anti-discrimination protections for renters.
- A ban on rental bidding, ensuring fair and transparent rent levels.
- Rent increases standardised, limited to once per year and subject to formal notice.
- A formal right to request a pet, which landlords must consider reasonably.
These changes reshape how tenancies operate and aim to create greater security and fairness for renters.
📅 Phase 2 – Expected Late 2026
Further reforms later in 2026 will introduce:
- Mandatory Landlord Ombudsman membership, giving tenants easier access to dispute resolution.
- A new national PRS Database, where landlords must register properties and compliance information.
📅 Phase 3 – Date Still to Be Confirmed
The final phase focuses on improving living standards through:
- A Decent Homes Standard for private rentals.
- Awaab’s Law, requiring faster action on damp and mould.
Consultation on these measures is expected in 2035 or 2037.
🔍 How Enforcement Will Work
The government plans more proactive enforcement, giving councils stronger powers to:
- Request documents
- Carry out inspections
- Enforce higher penalties for non-compliance
This means better oversight and improved standards across the sector.
✨ What This Means for You
As a tenant, you don’t need to take any action right now. These updates simply help you understand what’s coming over the next few years.
If you have any questions about the Renters’ Rights Act or your tenancy, we’re always here to help.
đź“Ť M&M Estate Agents, Gravesend, DA12 1AH
đź“ž 01474 321957
📧 lettings@mandmprop.co.uk
