The Renters’ Rights Act has now officially received Royal Assent and become law, marking the most significant reform of the private rented sector in decades. The Government has confirmed the implementation timetable, giving landlords much-needed clarity on when the changes will take effect.
Phase 1 will begin on 1 May 2026, introducing key tenancy changes that will reshape day-to-day management for landlords and their agents. These include the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, the shift to open-ended periodic tenancies, reformed Section 8 possession grounds, and new rules limiting rent increases to once per year with a two-month notice period. These reforms apply to both new and existing tenancies, meaning all landlords must review their tenancy documentation, communication processes and compliance procedures well before the deadline.
Phase 2 is scheduled for late 2026 and will see the introduction of the national Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database and the mandatory Landlord Ombudsman. Registration will be a legal requirement for all landlords, and the Ombudsman will provide binding decisions on disputes, making it essential for landlords to have robust processes and clear records in place.
Phase 3 will follow from 2030 onwards, bringing in higher property standards, including the extension of Awaab’s Law and the application of a Decent Homes Standard to the private sector for the first time.
How Victoria Allman Lettings is helping landlords to be Renters’ Right Ready.
We have been tracking the progress of the Renters’ Rights Bill over the last two years and are already putting in place the systems and processes to ensure that our landlords remain compliant and can safely navigate through the changes.
While the reforms limit some landlord freedoms, they also aim to professionalise the sector and create a more transparent, fair rental market. With proactive management, sound documentation and clear communication, we know that landlords can continue to prosper in the rental sector.
Check out our Guide for Landlords to run through the key changes along with some of the support measures that we will provide to landlords.
Call us on 01666 338866 to talk through any particular questions or concerns on how the Renters’ Rights Act will impact you.
