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The Renters' Rights Act

From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act will change how tenancies work in England. Some changes are big, and many landlords may feel unsure about what to do.

This is your chance to step in. You can give clear guidance, ease worries and signpost clients to useful sources, so they can plan with confidence.

Landlords must give existing tenants the official government Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet by 31 May 2026. Missing the deadline could lead to fines of up to £7,000 for landlords.

Some of the key changes

  • No-fault evictions are ending. Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without reason.
  • Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) are ending. All tenancies will move to Assured Periodic Tenancies (APTs) with no fixed end date. Any current ASTs will switch automatically on 1 May 2026.
  • Selling rules are changing. Landlords now need to give at least four months' notice to end a tenancy if they plan to sell a property without tenants or move back in themselves. If the tenancy ends for either of these reasons, the property can’t be re‑let for 12 months, even if a sale falls through.
  • Rent increases are limited. Rent review clauses will no longer apply. From 1 May, rent can only go up once per year.

Help your landlord clients stay one step ahead

  • Encourage clients to visit the government website to see all the changes. If needed, suggest they get their own legal advice. If they use a letting agent, they should also talk to them about what the new rules mean.
  • Talk through exit plans. This is key for clients nearing retirement or changing their portfolio, as the new rules may affect timing.
  • Review cashflow forecasts. Rent increases are now more limited, so budgets may need a refresh.

A short conversation now can help your clients feel prepared, informed and confident as the new rules come in.

Further information

For the most up-to-date and detailed information, please see the following external sources:

  1. Guide to the Renters' Rights Act - GOV.UK - official government information on the legislation and its implementation.
  2. Renter's Rights Act | Guide to the Renters' Rights Bill | NRLA - overview of the Act and its implications for landlords.

This page is intended to provide general background information only and to signpost to external sources for further information.