Renters Rights Act 2025

The Act received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025 and is described by the UK Government as transforming the experience of private renting by ending Section 21 and improving security for renters.

A detailed independent guide confirms the Act makes sweeping changes to the Housing Act 1988 and regulates every stage of a tenancy from 1 May 2026.

The legislation text itself sets out the full legal provisions, including tenancy reform, rent rules, possession grounds, and anti‑discrimination measures.

Key Provisions (Most Important for Landlords & Tenants):

All tenancies become assured periodic

• No more fixed‑term ASTs after 1 May 2026.
• Tenants can leave with 2 months’ notice at any time.
• Rent periods cannot exceed one month.
• Rent in advance is banned except for the first month.

Section 21 ‘no‑fault’ evictions abolished

• Landlords must use Section 8 grounds only.

New rent increase rules

• Only one increase every 12 months.
• Must follow the statutory Section 13 procedure.
• Tenants can challenge increases at tribunal.

Ban on rental bidding

• Landlords and agents cannot encourage or accept offers above the advertised rent.

Tenants can request pets

• Landlords must consider requests reasonably.

New landlord obligations

• Duty to provide clear statements of terms.
• Faster hazard repairs (Awaab’s Law).
• Decent Homes Standard extended to PRS.

New enforcement and penalties

• Financial penalties and offences for non‑compliance are expanded.

Anti‑discrimination rules

• Illegal to refuse tenants because they have children or receive benefits.

New PRS Ombudsman & Landlord Database

• Free dispute resolution service.
• Mandatory registration of landlords and properties.

When It Applies

1st May 2026 → Tenancy reforms (periodic tenancies, rent rules, Section 21 abolition).