RENTERS RIGHTS ACT: IMPLEMENTATION TIMETABLE ANNOUCED!
It’s been a busy fortnight for updates relating to the upcoming Renters’ Rights Act and the changes it will bring to the sector. Last night, the Government released the highly anticipated Roadmap, confirming exactly when the Renters’ Rights Act will take effect.
As you review these details, please remember that the dates below represent when the new rules legally come into force. Until then, existing tenancy rules and procedures continue to apply.
Here’s the key details from the Roadmap:
Phase 1 – 1st 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 Notice
- Tenants’ right to request a pet
Phase 2 – Late 2026: Introduction of the new PRS Database and the Landlord Ombudsman
Phase 3 – TBC: Implementation of the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law
The Renters Rights Act allows for heightened investigatory powers by Local Authorities from the 27th December 2025.
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.
What about 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)
What will I need to do next?
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.
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.
The good news is that if you’re a fully managed client of ours, we’ll take care of the entire process for you, ensuring full compliance with all upcoming legislative changes.
If you have any questions about the upcoming changes and how they may affect you, call our team of experts on 01572 335005.
PS. Here is the link to the full Roadmap > Implementing the Renters Rights Act Roadmap
