Renters’ Rights Act – What It Means for Landlords and Tenants
At Camino Properties, we believe it’s important for both landlords and tenants to understand the upcoming changes being introduced through the UK Government’s Renters’ Rights Act. The legislation is designed to reform the private rented sector, improve security for tenants, and raise standards across the industry.
While some details are still being finalised, the changes are expected to significantly affect how tenancies are managed in England.
What Is the Renters’ Rights Act?
The Renters’ Rights Act is a major reform of the private rental sector. The aim is to provide tenants with greater security and improved living standards, while also creating a clearer legal framework for landlords.
The legislation is expected to introduce changes including:
- The abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions
- A move away from fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies
- Stronger protections for tenants
- New rules around rent increases
- Improved standards for rental properties
- Greater rights for tenants to keep pets
- A new landlord database and ombudsman scheme
These reforms will affect both existing and new tenancies once implemented.
What It Means for Landlords
End of Section 21 Evictions
One of the biggest changes is the proposed removal of Section 21 notices. This means landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without giving a valid legal reason.
Instead, landlords will need to rely on updated Section 8 grounds, such as:
- Selling the property
- Moving into the property themselves
- Serious rent arrears
- Anti-social behaviour
- Breach of tenancy agreement
For responsible landlords, this means good documentation, communication, and professional management will become even more important.
Periodic Tenancies Becoming Standard
Fixed-term tenancies are expected to be replaced with periodic tenancies. Tenants will have greater flexibility to leave with notice, while landlords will still have legal grounds to regain possession when appropriate.
This could create a more fluid rental market and may lead to slightly higher tenant turnover in some cases.
Rent Increase Rules
Landlords will still be able to increase rents, but the process is likely to become more regulated. Rent increases are expected to be limited to once per year using a formal process, and tenants will have the right to challenge excessive increases.
It will become increasingly important to ensure rents remain in line with local market values.
Property Standards and Compliance
The Government is placing greater emphasis on property conditions and tenant safety. Landlords should expect increased scrutiny around:
- Damp and mould issues
- Electrical and gas safety
- Energy efficiency
- General maintenance standards
Professional landlords who already maintain their properties well are unlikely to face major issues, but compliance will become even more important moving forward.
Ombudsman and Landlord Registration
A new mandatory landlord ombudsman scheme and landlord database are also expected to be introduced. This is intended to improve transparency and accountability within the sector.
What It Means for Tenants
Greater Security
The removal of Section 21 evictions is designed to give tenants greater confidence and stability in their homes. Tenants who meet their obligations should feel more secure in long-term renting.
Easier to Challenge Poor Standards
Tenants will have stronger protections if properties are not maintained correctly. The reforms aim to ensure rented homes are safe, decent, and properly managed.
Rights Around Pets
Tenants are expected to have stronger rights to request permission for pets. Landlords will still be able to refuse in reasonable circumstances, but blanket bans may become more difficult.
Fairer Rent Increase Process
The reforms are intended to make rent increases more transparent and predictable, giving tenants clearer rights if they believe an increase is unfair.
A Balanced Approach
While the Renters’ Rights Act introduces significant changes, the vast majority of good landlords already operate professionally and provide quality homes for their tenants. Equally, most tenants simply want a secure, well-maintained property and clear communication.
At Camino Properties, we are closely monitoring the legislation and helping both landlords and tenants prepare for the changes ahead. Our aim is always to create positive, professional tenancies that work well for everyone involved.
If you are a landlord with questions about how the reforms may affect your property, or a tenant seeking advice about your rights, please feel free to contact our team.
Click here to download The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026
