The Renters’ Rights Act 2025: what landlords need to know
From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act changes how private renting works in England. It brings more security for tenants and places new obligations on landlords.
What is the Renters’ Rights Act?
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces new rules for private renting in England. It replaces fixed-term lets with open-ended, rolling tenancies. It also ends no-fault evictions and sets clear rules on rent and property standards. The aim is to make renting simpler, fairer, and more secure for tenants.
The government is bringing in these changes in three stages. Phase 1 starts on 1 May 2026, with more changes added over time as the new system rolls out.
Implementation timeline
Phase 1
From 1 May 2026
This phase introduces various changes including the main tenancy reforms:
- The move to Assured Periodic Tenancies (APT)
- The removal of no-fault eviction rights
- Limits on rent increases and rent in advance
- Changes to how pets are considered
- Stronger anti‑discrimination protections
- Expanded local authority enforcement powers.
Phase 2
Expected from late 2026
This phase will include:
The introduction of a Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Database
The launch of the PRS Landlord Ombudsman service.
Phase 3
Date not yet confirmed
Further information
For the most up‑to‑date and detailed information, please see the following external sources.
1. Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act - GOV.UK - official government information on the legislation and its implementation
2. Renter's Rights Act | Guide to the Renters' Rights Bill | NRLA - overview of the Act and its implications for landlords
