Renters’ Rights Act

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Overview

The Renters’ Rights Act aims to:

  • transform the experience of private renting

  • offer renters greater security and stability so they can stay in their homes for longer

  • increase council powers to investigate landlords and enforce compliance - this includes issuing higher fines and penalties

The Renter's Rights Act received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025.

It will be introduced in three phases. The first phase starts on 1 May 2026.

Phase one

By 1 May 2026:

  • abolition of section 21 'no fault' evictions

  • introduction of Assured Periodic Tenancies in the PRS. Renters will be able to end the tenancy at any point by giving two months’ notice. 

  • reform of possession grounds in the PRS so they are fair for both parties. Landlords will only be able to evict tenants when they have a valid reason.

  • limit rent increases to once a year in the PRS. Landlords must give tenants at least two months' notice of a rent increase.

  • ban rental bidding and asking for more than one month’s rent in advance. It will be illegal to invite or accept bids above the advertised rent. 

  • it will be illegal to discriminate against renters who have children or receive benefits

  • right to request a pet: Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request to have a pet. 

  • strengthen local council enforcement and rent repayment orders

Phase two

By late 2026:

  • all private landlords must register their properties and contact details on a new national database

A Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman will likely be introduced in 2028 and will:

  • provide a redress service for PRS tenants when things go wrong

  • support landlords with tools, guidance and training on handling complaints

Phase three

By 2035:

  • The Decent Homes Standard for the PRS will be introduced
  • this will ensure all PRS properties meet a minimum standard of housing quality
  • Awaab’s Law will also extend to the PRS at a time to be confirmed

Information for landlords

If you're a landlord you can:

Information for tenants

If you're a tenant you can:

Last updated: 31 March 2026