The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 will come into force on 1 May 2026. The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government has published guidance and an implementation Roadmap setting out three phases:

 

Phase 1

1 May 2026 – tenancy reform measures, including

  • Periodic tenancies
  • Section 21 abolished
  • Cap on rent in advance
  • Anti-discrimination measures
  • Ban on rental bidding
  • Annual rent increases via section 13 notices  
  • Tenant's rights to request a pet

 

Phase 2

Introduction of the Landlord Ombudsman requirements and the rollout of the new PRS Database from late 2026.

 

Phase 3

Implementation of the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law (timing to be confirmed, with consultation expected in either 2035 or 2037).

 

[View Roadmap]

 

What does this mean? 

On 1 May 2026, the new tenancy system will apply to all private tenancies. Existing tenancies will convert to the new system, and any new tenancies signed on or after this date will also be governed by the new rules.

 

Section 21 Notices

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, Section 21 notices that are served before 1 May 2026 are still valid until the notice expires (six months from the date of the notice) or is concluded (tenant vacates).

 

Written Statements

As set out in the Act, all new tenancies must have a written tenancy agreement that includes specific information to be set out by the UK Government in secondary legislation.

 

Landlords won’t need to change or re-issue existing written tenancy agreements. Instead, they will need to provide tenants with a copy of this UK Government-produced information sheet, explaining how the reforms may have affected the tenancy. Propertymark is working with MHCLG on the details to be contained within the information sheet, with further details to be provided at a later date.

 

If an existing tenancy doesn’t currently have a written tenancy agreement — because it is based on a verbal agreement or because it is a protected (rent act) tenancy — landlords will need to provide the tenant with a written document that covers the required information.

 

via [Propertymark]