Renters' Rights Act: the landlord checklist

Phase 1 of the Renters' Rights Act 2025 took effect on 1 May 2026. Here is what changed for landlords in England, and what to check today.

Already in force (1 May 2026)

All tenancies are now assured periodic tenancies. Fixed terms have gone.
Section 21 "no-fault" evictions have ended. Possession now uses section 8 grounds and the new forms.
Rent can rise once a year, using the prescribed section 13 notice, with at least two months' notice. Rent increase guide and calculator →
Adverts must state a rent. You can't ask for, encourage or accept offers above it.
Rent in advance is capped at one month.
You must consider every request to keep a pet and answer within 28 days. You can refuse only on reasonable grounds. Pet request guide and deadline calculator →
Blanket bans on tenants with children or on benefits are unlawful. Check your adverts, agreements, mortgage and insurance.

Paperwork

Tenancies that started before 1 May 2026 with a written agreement: give the government information sheet (the deadline was 31 May 2026).
Verbal-only tenancies: give a written record of the terms instead.
New tenancies: give the required information in writing, for example in the tenancy agreement.

Coming next

PRS database: from 15 December 2026, by region — see deadlines.
Landlord ombudsman: membership becomes mandatory in a later phase.
Decent Homes Standard and Awaab's Law for private renting: dates to be confirmed.

If you don't comply

Councils can issue civil penalties of up to £7,000 or £40,000, depending on the breach, or prosecute (unlimited fine). Tenants and councils can get Rent Repayment Orders of up to two years' rent.

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Sources: GOV.UK Renting is changing; MHCLG Renters' Rights Act landlord checklist.

General information, not legal or tax advice. Checked against GOV.UK on 30 September 2026. Rules change — always confirm on GOV.UK.