What the Renters’ Rights Act means for me as a renter
Working in property PR means I spend a lot of time talking about homes, policies and market shifts - but the latest legislation feels especially relevant to me as a renter. The government has now published its Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act, outlining a series of reforms aimed at making renting in England fairer and more secure. These reforms were approved in Autumn 2025 and are expected to come into law in May 2026.
As someone navigating London’s residential housing market personally, and working in the property sector professionally, I’ve been particularly interested in how these changes will affect tenants and landlords in 2026. Here are the key changes you need to know about if you’re renting a property next year:
1. Ending “no-fault” evictions
What it means: Landlords can no longer evict tenants without a legal reason. They must now use a Section 8 notice and demonstrate valid grounds. Valid grounds might include serious rent arrears, damage to the property or the landlord wants to sell.
Impact on renters: We can feel more secure in our homes and plan for the future, knowing we can’t be asked to leave without just cause.
2. Limit on rent in advance
What it means: For renters entering into a new tenancy agreement, landlords may now only request one month’s rent upfront. This was previously uncapped, and many prospective tenants were being asked for large amounts of rent in advance, which were beyond their means. Landlords will also no longer be allowed to take any money from tenants before the tenancy agreement is signed.
Impact on renters: Moving becomes far more affordable, easing the financial pressure of high advance payments.
3. Restriction on rent increases
What it means: Rent can only be increased once a year, with at least two months’ notice.
Impact on renters: Budgeting becomes easier, with no risk of sudden, unexpected rent hikes.
4. All tenancies become periodic (rolling)
What it means: Fixed-term contracts will automatically convert into monthly rolling agreements. Tenants can leave with two months’ notice, and landlords can’t force a move-out simply because a fixed term ends.
Impact on renters: More flexibility and greater long-term stability, without anxiously awaiting a move-out date. Tenants will be able to leave a tenancy more easily if their circumstances change, rather than feeling trapped in long-term contracts.
5. “No pets” clauses become unenforceable
What it means: Landlords can’t rely on blanket “no pets” rules - they can only refuse a pet request for specific, legitimate reasons, such as head-lease restrictions or severe allergies.
Impact on renters: A much better chance of having a pet without risking your tenancy.
As a renter working in the property world, these are welcome changes. For me, the biggest change is the sense of stability: the ability to think long-term about where I live, rather than always anticipating the next unexpected move.
For landlords, the changes mean more settled, secure tenants, which often leads to better care of their properties and stronger, more positive relationships overall.
By Olivia Bermingham