Renters' Rights Act

The Renter’s Rights Bill received Royal Assent at the end of October, which means it has been signed off by the King, and it is now the Renters’ Rights Act. These changes will come into force on Friday, 1st May 2026.

These are some of the biggest changes to take place in the rental sector for a long time. The reason for the new act is to ultimately provide more security to tenants by:

• Abolition of "No-Fault" Evictions: Historically, landlords have been able to evict tenants without providing any specific reason—a practice known as “no-fault” evictions. The Renters’ Rights Bill eliminates this possibility, ensuring that evictions can only occur under justifiable circumstances, such as non-payment of rent or anti-social behaviour.
  
  
• Extended Notice Periods: The bill mandates longer notice periods for evictions, granting tenants additional time to secure alternative accommodation. This change provides tenants with greater stability and reduces the stress associated with sudden relocations.
  
  
• Regulated Rent Increases: To prevent arbitrary rent hikes, the bill introduces measures to regulate rent increases. Landlords are required to justify any proposed rent increases, and tenants have the right to challenge excessive hikes, ensuring that rent adjustments remain fair and reasonable.
  
  
• Pet-Friendly Provisions: Recognising the importance of pets in many households, the bill includes provisions that allow tenants to request permission to keep pets. Landlords must consider these requests reasonably, promoting a more inclusive and accommodating rental environment.
  
  
• Rent in Advance: You are now required to only pay one month's rent up front. Landlords are not allowed to ask for payment of rent before you have signed the tenancy.
   
• Rental Discrimination: A landlord cannot discriminate against a tenant under the Equality Act. They are not allowed to refuse to rent a property to a tenant on benefits or who has children. 
  
  
• Rental Bidding: Landlords are not allowed to accept offers above the advertised rent.

Renters' Rights Bill marks a pivotal shift in the rental market, prioritising tenant welfare and fostering a more equitable rental sector. By introducing key protections and fair practices, the bill enhances the overall renting experience, providing tenants with the security and rights they deserve.