The Government introduced the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, marking the biggest reform to the private rental sector in a generation.
The new law aims to improve security for tenants while raising standards across the industry. As a result, landlords must adapt the way they let and manage their properties.
No-Fault Evictions Abolished
The most headline-grabbing change is the end of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions.
This means landlords will no longer be able to ask tenants to leave without a valid legal reason.
Instead, all tenancies will move to periodic (rolling) agreements, and landlords will have to rely on specific grounds for possession — such as rent arrears, breach of tenancy, or selling the property.
End of Fixed-Term Tenancies
Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) are being replaced with open-ended tenancies, giving tenants greater flexibility to move.
Tenants will now be able to end their tenancy with two months’ notice at any time, while landlords will need to use one of the updated legal grounds to terminate.
Fairer Rules for Rent Increases
The Act also introduces stricter rules around rent setting and rent reviews.
Landlords can no longer accept offers above the advertised rent, and rent increases can only be made once per year, using a formal Section 13 notice with reasonable justification.
Stronger Standards and Tenant Protections
The Government has signalled a stronger focus on quality and transparency across the rental market.
This includes:
- A national landlord and agent registration system
- Stricter rules on property conditions and repairs
- Clearer documentation of tenant rights at the start of each tenancy
Local authorities are expected to receive new powers to enforce these standards and issue fines for non-compliance.
Timeline for Implementation
The first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act is expected to come into force on 1 May 2026.
Initially, it will apply to new tenancies, with existing tenancies transitioning later once secondary legislation is in place.
Landlords and agents are being urged to start reviewing agreements, systems, and communications ahead of time to avoid disruption once the new rules take effect.
What This Means for Landlords
These changes don’t remove your right to manage your property — but they do change the framework for how you do it.
You’ll need to:
- Update tenancy agreements to the new structure
- Use compliant rent review and possession procedures
- Maintain transparent records and documentation
- Prepare for greater oversight from regulators
💡How The Calculator Guy Can Help?
At The Calculator Guy, we support landlords through every regulatory change — from tax planning to compliance.
We’ll help you:
- Understand the financial impact of the new Act
- Review your property income and reporting for 2025/26
- Prepare for the transition to compliant, transparent tenancy management
👉 Read more about the changes at NRLA: Read More