The Act
The New Rules for Private Landlords: What Changed Under the Act
Sixteen changes, each in plain English. Tap any one to read what it means.
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is the biggest change to private renting in England in over thirty years. It came into force on 1st May 2026 and rewrites how tenancies start, run and end. Section 21 “no-fault” evictions are gone: every possession now needs a specific legal ground and a court order. Fixed-term tenancies are gone too, replaced by open-ended periodic tenancies a tenant can leave on two months' notice. Rent can be raised only once a year, and only on the prescribed form. Tenants gain the right to request a pet, protection from discrimination for receiving benefits or having children, and access to a new landlord ombudsman. Landlords face a national property database, the Decent Homes Standard, and stronger penalties, with civil fines up to £7,000 and Rent Repayment Orders reaching two years' rent.
Some of these changes are already in force; others, like the database and the ombudsman, are still to come. The sixteen changes below cover what has changed, what it means for a private landlord, and when each takes effect. Tap any one to read the detail, and follow the “Read the full guide” links for the topics you need to act on.
Get your tenancy compliance in order.