From 1 May 2026, your rights as a private rented tenant have changed.
The Renters’ Rights Act is now law and gives tenants stronger protections and clearer rights, while setting new standards for landlords.
Key changes:
Key changes introduced by this legislation include:
- abolishment of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
- fairer rent review processes
- limits on advance rent payments
- an end to rental bidding wars
- a ban discrimination against tenants in receipt of benefits or with children
- a right for tenants to request a pet, which must not be unreasonably refused by landlords
Changes are being implemented on a phased basis, giving tenants, landlords and councils time to prepare.
What does this mean for me?
The Act provides councils greater enforcement powers and introduces stronger penalties to ensure properties are kept free from hazards and that all tenants are issued with a proper written agreement.
For more information on how your rights as a private tenant have changed, read the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet.