Tenancy End Dates and Notice Periods

From 1st May, most tenancies will transition to rolling tenancies, rendering any specified end date in the tenancy agreement obsolete. Tenants will be required to provide two months’ notice to vacate the property, unless the landlord agrees to a shorter notice period. Conversely, landlords will need to serve a valid notice or obtain a court order to regain possession.

Evictions and Valid Notices

The abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions means that landlords must now have a legitimate reason to evict a tenant. Valid grounds for eviction include antisocial behaviour, non-payment of rent, or damage to the property, as well as the landlord’s intention to sell or occupy the property. Notably, Section 21 notices served on or before 30 April 2026 will remain valid.

Rent Increases and Challenges

Landlords will be limited to increasing rent once a year, with a minimum of two months’ notice to tenants. Tenants can contest rent increases deemed excessive by applying to a first-tier tribunal. Any rent increase taking effect after 1st May will be subject to the new rules, which dictate that a 12-month period must have elapsed since the last increase.

Bidding and Rent Payments

The practice of inflating rent through bidding wars will be prohibited. Landlords and letting agents will only be permitted to accept offers at or below the asking price. Furthermore, landlords will no longer be able to request large upfront payments to secure a tenancy, with the first month’s rent being the maximum allowable.

Discrimination and Pets

Discrimination against tenants with children or those receiving benefits will be outlawed. Landlords and agents will be required to consider written requests for pets and provide a valid reason for refusal. Once a landlord agrees to a pet, they cannot subsequently change their mind.

Lodgers and Licences

It is essential to note that the Renters’ Rights Act does not apply to lodgers, who are subject to a licence agreement rather than a tenancy agreement. Lodger landlords or live-in landlords will continue to have the flexibility to terminate the licence with a notice period equivalent to one rental period.