Renters’ Rights Act 2026: What UK Landlords Need to Know (New Rules Explained)

by | Mar 24, 2026 | Buy to Let

From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 will introduce major changes to the UK rental market.

If you’re a landlord, understanding these new rental laws in the UK is essential to avoid fines, stay compliant, and manage your properties effectively.

In this guide, we break down the Renters’ Rights Act changes for landlords, what they mean in practice, and what you need to do now.

Key Changes to Rental Laws in 2026

The Renters’ Rights Act brings in a number of reforms that will impact how tenancies are structured, managed, and ended.

Fixed-Term Tenancies Are Being Abolished

From May 2026, all tenancies will become periodic (rolling) tenancies.

This means:
• No fixed end dates on tenancy agreements
• Tenancies continue until the tenant leaves or valid legal grounds are used
• Greater flexibility for tenants

For landlords, this removes the certainty of fixed-term agreements and changes how you plan tenancy timelines.

Section 21 Is Being Scrapped

One of the biggest changes is the removal of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.

Landlords will now:
• Need a legal reason (Section 8 grounds) to regain possession
• Provide evidence if the case goes to court
• Follow stricter processes when ending a tenancy

This is a major shift in UK eviction rules for landlords.

New Rules on Rent Increases

Under the new legislation:

• Rent can only be increased once per year
• Landlords must give at least 2 months’ notice
• Increases must reflect market rent levels

Tenants will also have the right to challenge increases through a tribunal.

This creates a more regulated approach to rent increases in the UK private rental sector.

Tenants’ Rights to Keep Pets

Tenants will have the legal right to request permission to keep a pet.

Landlords:
• Cannot unreasonably refuse
• Must provide a valid reason if declining
• Must consider each request individually

Legal Requirement: Information Sheet for Tenants (Deadline 1 May 2026)

One of the most important (and immediate) requirements for landlords is the Renters’ Rights information sheet.

You must:
• Provide the official information sheet to all tenants before 1 May 2026
• Ensure tenants acknowledge receipt (email confirmation is acceptable)

This applies even if your tenancy agreement is not changing. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to £7,000.

The form you need to send can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-renters-rights-act-information-sheet-2026

How Will the Renters’ Rights Act Affect UK Landlords?

These changes mean landlords will need to take a more structured approach to managing their properties.

In practice:
• You’ll need clearer documentation and processes
• Ending a tenancy will require stronger justification
• Rent reviews will be more controlled

For landlords with multiple properties, staying organised and compliant will be key.

Should Landlords Be Concerned About the 2026 Rental Changes?

The reforms don’t remove the opportunity in property investment, but they do change the landscape.

Landlords who stay informed and adapt early will be in a stronger position.

This is particularly important if you are:
• Expanding your portfolio
• Reviewing your current mortgage or borrowing
• Considering selling or restructuring your properties

Need Help Understanding the New Landlord Rules?

If you would like any guidance on how the Renters’ Rights Act 2026 affects you or your properties, please get in touch.

We’re always happy to have a conversation and help you understand your options.

Frequenty Asked Questions

When does the Renters’ Rights Act come into force?
The Renters’ Rights Act comes into force on 1 May 2026. From this date, the new rules will automatically apply to most private rental tenancies in England.
Do I need to send tenants the Renters’ Rights information sheet?
Yes. Landlords must provide tenants with the official information sheet before 1 May 2026 and ensure tenants acknowledge receipt.

Failure to do so could result in fines of up to £7,000.

Are fixed-term tenancies being abolished?
Yes. From 1 May 2026, all tenancies will become rolling (periodic) tenancies, meaning there is no fixed end date.
How often can landlords increase rent under the new rules?
Landlords can only increase rent once per year and must give at least 2 months’ notice using the correct legal process.
Do landlords have to allow pets?
Tenants now have the right to request a pet. Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse, but they can decline if there is a valid reason.
Do these changes apply to all rental properties?
The rules apply to most private rented sector tenancies (assured or assured shorthold tenancies). They generally do not apply to social housing or lodgers.
Do landlords need to update tenancy agreements?
Not necessarily. The new rules apply automatically by law, even if your tenancy agreement hasn’t been updated. However, landlords should review their agreements to ensure they reflect the new legislation.
Can tenants refuse to acknowledge receipt?
Tenants can choose not to respond, but landlords should take reasonable steps to obtain confirmation (for example, email acknowledgement).

Keeping a clear record of when and how the document was sent is important for compliance.

Is Section 21 being scrapped?
Yes. Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions will no longer be permitted.

Landlords will need to rely on Section 8 grounds and provide a valid legal reason to end a tenancy.

Can tenants challenge rent increases?
Yes. If a tenant believes a rent increase is above market value, they can challenge it through a tribunal.
What happens if landlords don’t comply with the new rules?
Failure to comply with certain requirements, such as providing the information sheet, could result in financial penalties of up to £7,000.
What should landlords do now?
Landlords should:
• Provide the required information sheet to tenants
• Obtain acknowledgement of receipt
• Review their tenancy processes
• Stay up to date with the new rules

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