The Renters’ Rights Bill officially became law on 28th October 2025, meaning it is now the Renters’ Rights Act. The first wave of changes will begin to take effect from May 2026, bringing the biggest shake-up to the private rented sector in decades.
While much of the commentary focuses on landlords, the new Act introduces significant improvements and protections for tenants. If you rent a home in England, how will you be affected by the Renters’ Rights Act?
Fixed-Term Tenancies Are Ending
Under the new Act, fixed-term tenancy agreements will be phased out. Instead, all tenancies will move to rolling periodic agreements.
What this means for tenants:
- You won’t be locked into a long fixed term if your circumstances change
- You can give two months’ notice at any time, right from the start of the tenancy
- Tenancy agreements must now be provided in writing, offering more clarity and transparency
- Landlords will only be allowed to take one month’s rent in advance, making moving home more affordable
This change is designed to stop tenants feeling “trapped” in unsuitable accommodation, particularly if a property is poorly maintained or if you need to relocate for work or family reasons.
The End of ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
One of the most significant changes is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions.
What this means for tenants:
- Your landlord can no longer ask you to leave without giving a valid, legal reason
- All evictions must go through the Section 8 process, with evidence to support the claim
- You will have greater security in your home
- If you are asked to leave for a legitimate reason, you are likely to have more time to find alternative accommodation
In most cases where you have not breached your tenancy agreement, notice periods will be at least four months.
Stronger Rules Around Evictions and Notice Periods
The Act introduces longer notice periods and tighter rules, especially where tenants are not at fault.
What this means for tenants:
- More time to address rent arrears if you fall behind
- Protection from eviction during the first 12 months of a tenancy if a landlord wants to sell or move in
- Safeguards to prevent landlords from evicting and quickly re-letting a property
- Faster action against serious anti-social behaviour, helping to protect neighbours and communities
Higher Standards for Rental Homes
The new Decent Homes Standard will apply to the private rented sector for the first time.
What this means for tenants:
- Clear minimum standards for safety, warmth and property condition
- Stronger rules around damp, mould, heating and ventilation
- Faster timescales for landlords to resolve serious issues
- Increased compensation through rent repayment orders – rising from 12 to 24 months’ rent
- The right to challenge dangerous living conditions through the courts
Fairer Rules on Pets and Discrimination
The Act also tackles long-standing issues around tenant discrimination.
What this means for tenants:
- You can formally request permission to keep a pet, and landlords cannot refuse without good reason
- Blanket bans on tenants with children or those in receipt of benefits will be outlawed
- If you believe you have been unfairly refused a property, it will be easier to challenge that decision
Greater Control Over Rent Increases
Rent increases will be more tightly regulated.
What this means for tenants:
- Rent increases can only happen once every 12 months
- Increases must reflect local market rates
- You will have stronger rights to challenge unfair increases
- If a challenge goes to tribunal, your rent cannot be increased beyond what the landlord originally proposed
- Any increase will apply from the decision date only – no backdating
More Accountability for Landlords
All landlords will register on a new Private Rented Sector Database and join a mandatory Ombudsman scheme.
What this means for tenants:
- You can check whether your landlord has a history of fines or enforcement action
- Disputes will have a clearer, simpler route to resolution through the Ombudsman
- Councils will have stronger powers to fine landlords who break the rules
In Summary
The Renters’ Rights Act represents a major step forward for tenants, offering:
- Greater security
- Better living standards
- Fairer treatment
- Clearer routes to redress
At DDM Lettings, we’re here to help tenants understand their rights and feel confident in their homes as these changes come into effect. If you have questions about how the new legislation may affect your tenancy, our team is always happy to help. Contact us today.
