Renters Rights Act 2026

The Renters Rights Act 2026 is a far-reaching housing reform drafted to realign the law and rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants by creating fairness, improved living standards and better security in the private rented sector.  The Act was introduced as concerns were rising regarding insecure tenancies, escalating rents and poor property standards.  

One of the most significant clauses is the ending of the “no fault” evictions whereby tenants could be evicted without providing a reason.  Landlords have a raft of reforms to adhere to and should ensure that they understand the key reforms that the Act introduces.  

The Act also introduces the role of Private Rented Sector Ombudsman.  The Ombudsman will hear all complaints that tenants raise and will provide binding decisions without having to go to court.  This will avoid prolonged disputes and costly legal fees.  

The Act introduces the following reforms:

• Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will be replaced with periodic tenancies which will roll on month to month be default.
• Tenants can terminate their tenancy with a valid reason and notice at any time.
• There are now defined legal grounds that Landlords must follow to regain possession of a property.
• Section 21 evictions are now abolished and now Landlords must give valid grounds for eviction.
• Rent increases are limited to once per year and must be in line with the current market rates. Also, tenants can challenge the increase through a tribunal.
• Landlords must ensure that the property is maintained as a safe habitable home, reaching minimum housing standards.  Damp and mould must be acted on quickly and there will be penalties for failure to do so.
• The Act opens up housing to vulnerable groups as it aims to stop unfair treatment and there will be blanket bans on refusing to accept tenants on benefits and families with children.

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