Some of the laws about private renting have changed. These changes apply to new and existing tenancies.
The changes are happening in 3 phases. This information is about the changes introduced in the first phase from 1 May 2026.
No more section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
Landlords can no longer use section 21 to evict you without a reason. They must have a valid reason, such as:
- you owe rent
- antisocial behaviour
- they want to sell the property
End to fixed-term tenancies
If you had a fixed-term tenancy, it ended on a specific date - for example, after 12 months.
All private tenancies are now ‘rolling’ - also known as ‘periodic’. This means your tenancy renews automatically after each rental period. For example if you pay rent every month, your tenancy will renew every month.
It helps renters because:
- you’re not locked into a yearly contract
- you only need to give 2 months’ notice to move out - unless you and the landlord agree to less
- your landlord cannot end the tenancy early
If your landlord gave you an eviction notice before 1 May 2026, they can still take you to court to end your tenancy - but only if the eviction notice is valid.
Fairer rent increases
Your landlord can only increase your rent once a year. They must:
- give you a ‘section 13’ notice
- give you 2 months’ notice before the price goes up
If you think the new rent is too high for your area, you can challenge this at a tribunal.
Paying rent in advance
Your landlord cannot ask you for more than one month’s rent in advance. Landlords cannot ask for this money until after you’ve signed a tenancy agreement.
End to rental bidding
When you're looking for a property to rent, you only need to pay the advertised rent. Landlords cannot ask for or accept offers above this.
End to discrimination
Your landlord cannot discriminate against you if you have children or you're on benefits.
Right to request a pet
You can request to keep a pet in your home. Your landlord can only refuse if they have a valid reason.
If your current tenancy agreement says ‘no pets’, this no longer applies.
Written tenancy agreement
Your landlord must give you a written information about your tenancy.
Guidance for landlords
If you’re a landlord or letting agent, you face higher fines and penalties if you break the law.
You can read the full guide to the Act on GOV.UK.
You should:
- stay up to date with guidance for landlords on GOV.UK
- review your property portfolio and identify areas that need upgrades or compliance adjustments
- update your tenancy agreements in line with the new requirements
- keep clear records of compliance
- engage with professional landlord associations to stay informed and get guidance
Guidance for tenants
If you’re a renter, you can get more information about the changes from Shelter.
You can also stay up to date with the guidance for renters on GOV.UK.