Renters’ Rights Act 2025: What England Landlords Must Do in 2026
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 changed the way most private properties are let in England on 1 May 2026. For landlords, the essential tasks are to understand how existing tenancies changed, use the correct procedures for rent and possession, and check what information tenants should have received.
What happened to existing tenancies?
Most existing private assured shorthold tenancies became assured periodic tenancies. A landlord with an existing written agreement did not generally have to issue a replacement agreement solely because the law changed. However, most landlords had to give every named tenant the official Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet by 31 May 2026. Different written information rules apply to entirely verbal agreements and new tenancies. GOV.UK
How can a landlord recover possession?
Section 21 is no longer available for a new private rented sector possession notice. A landlord seeking possession must identify an applicable legal ground, serve the correct section 8 notice and, if the tenant remains, apply to court. A notice does not itself end the tenant’s right to occupy.
The grounds have different requirements and notice periods. For example, a landlord intending to sell may consider Ground 1A, while rent arrears may engage Grounds 8, 10 or 11. The government publishes the current grounds for possession guidance and Form 3A. GOV.UK
What else should landlords check?
Private landlords must use the revised section 13 procedure and Form 4A to propose a rent increase, normally giving at least two months’ notice. Rent increases are limited to once a year. Rules introduced on 1 May also address rental bidding, rent in advance, discrimination against applicants with children or receiving benefits, and requests to keep pets. Review adverts, application processes and agent instructions alongside tenancy paperwork. GOV.UK
For a fuller explanation of the reforms, read the government’s overview for landlords.
Need help keeping up with landlord legislation? Join the British Landlords Association for access to membership options and landlord support.
This article provides general information, not advice on a particular tenancy.
