Renters urged to understand their new rights before major law change
With just one week until the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect, renters across England are being urged to understand how the changes will affect their rights, tenancies and day-to-day renting experience.
From 1 May 2026, the new legislation will introduce wide-ranging reforms designed to provide greater stability, clearer rights, and stronger safeguards for those living in the private rented sector.
Greater security at home
One of the most significant changes is the end of ‘no-fault’ evictions. From next week, renters can no longer be asked to leave a property without a valid reason.
Instead, tenants will have greater security, with the right to remain in their home unless specific legal grounds apply. If a tenant chooses to move out, they will typically need to provide at least two months’ notice.
All tenancies will also move to a rolling (periodic) system, replacing fixed-term agreements. This is intended to give renters more flexibility, allowing them to leave more easily without being tied into long contracts. From 1 May 2026, it will be illegal to include a fixed-term period at the start of a tenancy.
Clearer rules on when tenancies can end
Under the new system, landlords must rely on defined legal grounds to end a tenancy. These include circumstances such as serious rent arrears, the landlord needing to move into the property, or plans to sell.
For renters, this means greater clarity and consistency around when and why a tenancy can be brought to an end.
Changes to rent and letting practices
The Act will also introduce new rules aimed at making renting fairer. Rent increases will be limited to once per year and must be issued through an official “Section 13” notice. Rental bidding, where tenants are encouraged to offer more than the advertised rent, will be banned.
Stronger protections against discrimination will also be introduced, helping to ensure fair access to housing. These measures will also extend to Scotland on 1 May 2026 and in Wales on 1 June 2026.
Important dates for renters
With the changes just days away, renters should be aware of key deadlines:
- Any ‘no-fault’ eviction notices issued before 1 May 2026 can still proceed, but only if legal action begins before 31 July 2026
- By 31 May 2026, tenants must receive the UK Government’s Renters’ Rights information sheet, either as a printed document or a full digital copy
What this means for renters
These reforms are expected to bring more stability and transparency to renting, giving tenants greater confidence in their rights and living arrangements.
As the new system begins, renters may notice changes in how their tenancy is structured and managed, as well as clearer communication around their rights and responsibilities.
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, said:
“With just one week to go, it is important that renters understand the new rights and protections coming into force and what they mean in practice.
“These reforms are designed to provide greater security and transparency, but renters should still ensure they are aware of how tenancies will operate under the new system, particularly the move to periodic agreements and the updated rules around possession and rent increases.
“If renters are unsure, they should speak to their letting agent, who will be able to guide them through the changes and ensure they are fully informed.”
Ongoing support and guidance
Propertymark continues to work closely with the UK Government and its network of professional agents to support the rollout of the new legislation. Through ongoing guidance, resources and collaboration, the organisation is committed to helping ensure that renters receive clear, accurate information and that the transition to the new system is as smooth and well understood as possible.
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