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The Renters’ Rights Act 2025: Essential Guidance for Tenants and Landlords

12 November 2025

Although now law, most of the provisions will be implemented gradually from early 2026, giving landlords, tenants, and letting agents time to adapt.

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 represents the most substantial reform to the private rental sector in over three decades. Receiving Royal Assent on 27 October 2024, the legislation introduces far-reaching changes aimed at strengthening tenant protections while modernising landlord responsibilities.

Goodbye “No-Fault” Evictions

One of the headline changes is the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions under the Housing Act 1988. Landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without a legally recognised reason.

Possession can now only be sought under the expanded Section 8 grounds, which include:

• Serious rent arrears
• Sale of the property
• Landlord occupation

This reform is designed to give tenants greater stability and security, while ensuring landlords retain legitimate avenues to regain possession when necessary.

Periodic Tenancies Replace Fixed-Term Contracts

The Act introduces open-ended periodic tenancies as the default rental arrangement, replacing fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies.

Key points include:

• Tenancies will continue on a rolling basis until the tenant provides notice (minimum two months) or the landlord lawfully regains possession.
• Tenants benefit from flexibility to relocate for work or family commitments.
• Landlords will need to review agreements and internal processes to ensure compliance.

Higher Standards and Greater Landlord Accountability

The Act strengthens obligations for landlords, aiming to improve housing quality across the private sector:

• All rental properties must be registered on a new Private Rented Sector Database.
• Local authorities will have enhanced powers to enforce property standards and issue financial penalties for non-compliance.
• Landlords must continue to provide safe, well-maintained, and decent homes, aligning private rental standards more closely with social housing expectations.

Rent Changes and Notice Requirements

Under the new rules:

• Rent may only be increased once per year.
• Tenants must receive at least two months’ notice before a rent increase.
• Automatic or ambiguous “rent review clauses” will be prohibited.
• Tenants can challenge excessive increases through the First-tier Tribunal if rents exceed the local market level.

These measures are designed to ensure rent adjustments are transparent, fair, and predictable.

Timeline for Implementation

While the Act is now part of UK law, most provisions are not yet in effect. The government has confirmed a phased rollout starting early 2026:

1. Tenancy and rent-related reforms
2. Landlord registration and enforcement measures

How to Prepare

Landlords should:

• Review tenancy agreements and internal compliance procedures
• Update record-keeping systems

Tenants should:

• Familiarise themselves with their new rights and protections

At Aldridge Brownlee Solicitors, our Property team are available to provide guidance and support during this transitional period.

For personalised advice on the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 contact our Property Department or call: 01202 526343

 

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Further Information