Millions of landlords and tenants are facing significant changes as new regulations take effect starting today.
The Renters’ Rights Act, which commenced on May 1, prohibits “no fault” evictions and obligates landlords to consider allowing tenants to have pets. A tenant, Adrian Fletcher, 55, shared his distressing experience of nearly being evicted under a Section 21 notice after raising concerns about severe dampness and mold in his residence. Another tenant, James Coleman, recounted how receiving a Section 21 notice led to emotional turmoil and compelled his family to relocate away from their children’s schools.
Citizens Advice disclosed that in March alone, they assisted 2,335 individuals with Section 21 issues. The organization also supported over 1,800 people with home repairs, over 1,000 with rent adjustments, and highlighted the significance of the Renters’ Rights Act in rectifying the longstanding power discrepancy in the private rental sector.
Under the new regulations, landlords are prohibited from issuing Section 21 “no fault” eviction notices. All fixed-term tenancies will transition into rolling periodic tenancies with no fixed end date. Landlords must furnish tenants with essential details such as rent amounts, landlord contact information, and the official Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026. Tenants are required to give two months’ notice before leaving the rental property.
Additionally, landlords must provide a two-month notice for rent increases, limited to once a year, and rent hikes must be justifiable based on market rates. Tenants now have the right to request permission to have pets, subject to landlord approval. Landlords are barred from demanding more than one month’s rent in advance or engaging in rent bidding wars. Discriminatory practices like disallowing children or benefits in rental advertisements or tenancy agreements are also prohibited.
The Renters’ Rights Act marks a pivotal moment for tenants, ensuring enhanced security and fairness in the rental sector.