Renters’ Rights Blog – What You Need to Know
Trainee Solicitor, Litigation & Commercial
The Renters' Rights Bill – The deadline is approaching – ACT NOW
As many landlords may be aware, the Renters Rights Bill is coming into effect from 1 May 2026, and with it come many changes, and landlords need to ensure they understand the new requirements and restrictions.
Some of the changes coming into place are as follows:
Section 21 non-fault evictions
The most noticeable change is the removal of the section 21 non-fault eviction notice. If you haven’t already served your tenant with a section 21 notice, you will not be able to do so after 1 May 2026. If you have served a notice before this date, you will have until 31 July 2026 to issue proceedings in the court.
Fixed-term tenancies
From 1 May 2026, all fixed-term assured tenancies will be replaced by periodic tenancies.
This means as a landlord, you won’t be able to ask your tenant to leave and will have to give a valid reason for them to leave.
Landlords won't be able to create new fixed-term contracts.
Rent Increases
Rent increases will only be possible by serving a section 13 notice.
Furthermore, rent can only be increased once a year, and the increase must reflect the local market rate.
Steps to take before this date
Landlords: Ensure you obtain proper advice and take the steps you should be taking as a Landlord.
Tenants: ensure you understand the new rights under the new legislation.
All landlords are required to serve upon their tenant by 31 May 2026 the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026. This is available on the government website and should be sent to the tenant as soon as possible.
At Giles Wilson, our Property Litigation team will be happy to help with any queries you have.
