The Renters Rights Act 2025 has officially become law. Although it's been passed, the first changes are not expected to take effect until Spring 2026. This gives landlords, tenants, and councils extra time to prepare for the upcoming changes.
For the latest updates and full details, see the Guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill - GOV.UK.
Key changes in the Renters Rights Act 2025
Now
Landlords can evict tenants without giving a reason.
Change
From Spring 2026, this will no longer be allowed. All tenancies will be periodic, and evictions must be based on specific legal reasons (e.g. rent arrears, anti-social behaviour).
Impact
Tenants gain more security. Landlords must follow the clear legal grounds for evictions.
Now
Rent can be increased multiple times a year.
Change
Only one rent increase per year will be allowed. Tenants can challenge unfair increases via a tribunal.
Impact
Landlords must plan rent reviews carefully to ensure compliance.
Now
Landlords can ask for several months’ rent upfront.
Change
Advance rent payments will be capped at one month.
Impact
Reduces financial barriers for tenants. Landlords must adjust their rental setup.
Now
Some landlords ban pets entirely.
Change
Tenants can request to keep pets. Landlords must consider requests and cannot refuse without good reason.
Impact
Landlords may require pet insurance. Restrictions may still apply in HMOs or lease agreements.
Now
Some landlords refuse tenants with children or on benefits.
Change
Blanket bans refusing tenants with children or those on benefit will be illegal.
Impact
Fairer access to housing. Landlords must review their adverts and selection criteria.
Now
Disputes often require legal action.
Change
A mandatory Ombudsman will offer free, impartial complaint resolution.
Impact
Landlords and tenants benefit from a faster way to resolve disputes.
Now
Councils enforce housing standards under existing laws and policies.
Change
A national landlord database will be created. Councils will have more power to issue penalties.
Impact
Landlords must register properties and meet the Decent Homes Standard to avoid fines.
Changes will roll out in stages, starting in Spring 2026.
At least 6 months’ notice will be given before each stage begins.
To prepare you must:
- review tenancy agreements to reflect new rules
- plan rent reviews to comply with annual limits
- register properties when the database goes live
- ensure property standards meet legal requirements
- keep up to date by reading the Guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill - GOV.UK.