Renters Rights Act – Highlights
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces significant changes to the private rented sector, with the aim of improving security, standards, and fairness for tenants while setting clearer expectations for landlords. The legislation replaces fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies with periodic tenancies, meaning landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without a valid reason.
Possession will only be possible using specific legal grounds, such as selling the property, moving in, or serious rent arrears.
The Act also strengthens requirements around property standards and management. Landlords must ensure their properties meet updated safety and quality expectations, respond to repair issues promptly, and follow clearer rules on rent increases, which must be fair and in line with market rates.
Discrimination against tenants with children or those receiving benefits will be restricted, and tenants will have stronger rights to request pets, which landlords must consider reasonably.
In addition, the Act introduces a new landlord redress scheme and a national property database, meaning all landlords will need to register and comply with set rules. These measures are designed to improve transparency and professionalism across the sector.
Landlords should familiarise themselves with the new requirements and ensure their tenancy agreements, procedures, and property management practices are updated to remain compliant.
The attached information sheet should be given to tenants before 31st May 2026 – Download it here RRA Information Sheet
