Renters Rights Act 2026

On the 1st of May 2026 the first phase of the Renters Rights Act came into effect. Many changes are now in place which gives tenants improved rights. 

End of No-Fault Evictions: Section 21 "no-fault" evictions are completely abolished. Landlords must now have a valid legal reason (possession ground) to evict a tenant.

Ban on Bidding Wars: Landlords and letting agents can no longer ask for or accept offers above the advertised price.

End to Fixed-Term Contracts: Fixed-term assured tenancies are replaced with indefinite "periodic" (rolling) tenancies. Tenants can leave at any time by giving two months' notice.

Upfront Costs Capped: Rent requested in advance is legally limited to a maximum of one month's rent.

Protection Against Discrimination: Landlords cannot implement blanket bans against renters who receive benefits or have children.

Right to Request Pets: Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a tenant's written request to keep a pet.

Rent Increases: Rent can only be increased once a year, with a mandatory two months' notice. Tenants have the right to challenge unreasonable hikes at a tribunal

Annual Rent Review and Increase Procedure

Annual Review Process

Each year, a review will be provided to assess comparable rental prices and current market trends. This process ensures that rent adjustments reflect the prevailing market conditions.

Agreement and Notice

Following the annual review, if the landlord agrees with the proposed changes, a Section 13 (4a) notice will be served to the tenant(s). This notice formalises the decision and provides tenants with the required information regarding any rent adjustment.

Rent Increase

Once an agreement has been reached, an annual rent increase of 4% is chargeable to the Landlord. This is calculated; Total annual rent x 4%