Renters Right Bill Phase 1 – 1st May 2026
Significant changes to the rental system are being introduced to strengthen tenant protections and improve security and fairness in the private rented sector. The key measures below outline how these reforms affect your rights and obligations as a renter.
1. No More “No-Fault” Evictions
- Section 21 evictions are abolished — landlords cannot evict you without a legal reason any more.
- All possessions must now use Section 8 grounds (e.g., rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, landlord moving in, selling).
2. No Fixed-Term Contracts
- Fixed-term tenancies end — all tenancies become Assured Periodic Tenancies (rolling contracts).
- Renters can leave with 2 months’ notice.
- Landlords must use Section 8 reasons to regain possession.
3. Rent Increase Rules
- Rent may be increased only once per year.
- Landlords must give at least 2 months’ written notice.
- Tenants can challenge unfair increases at a tribunal.
4. Ban on Bidding Wars
- Landlords and agents cannot solicit or accept offers above the advertised rent.
- This is designed to prevent unfair competition and inflated rents.
5. Limits on Rent in Advance
- Landlords can only require up to 1 month’s rent in advance.
- Large upfront payments (e.g., 6–12 months) are no longer permitted.
6. Anti-Discrimination Measures
- Landlords cannot refuse tenants because they:
- have children, or
- receive benefits.
- Refusing to show properties or withholding information for these reasons becomes unlawful.
7. Pets and Tenant Requests
- Tenants may request to keep a pet, and landlords must consider this within a set timeframe.
- Landlords must give valid reasons if refusing.
8. Stronger Enforcement & Penalties
- Local councils gain new powers to enforce the rules.
- Rent Repayment Orders and penalties have been strengthened.