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The first official dates for the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 are now confirmed, and the changes ahead are some of the most significant we've seen in decades.
If you’re a landlord, these reforms will affect how you manage tenancies, increase rent, and regain possession of your property. Whether you let one property or a portfolio, this is the time to get ahead of what’s coming.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s changing, and when.
When will the new rules take effect?
The legislation will be introduced in three phases, starting at the end of 2025:
27 December 2025
Councils will gain new powers to inspect rental properties and demand information from landlords and agents.
1 May 2026 (Phase 1)
The core tenancy changes come into force. This includes the abolition of Section 21 evictions, a move to periodic tenancies, and new rules for rent increases, advance rent, and rent bidding.
Late 2026 onwards (Phases 2 & 3)
We’ll see the gradual rollout of the PRS Database, a mandatory Landlord Ombudsman, and the Decent Homes Standard in the private rented sector.
Key changes from 1 May 2026
Section 21 evictions will be abolished
From 1 May 2026, landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy using a Section 21 “no fault” notice. Instead, you’ll need to rely on updated Section 8 possession grounds and give a valid reason — such as selling the property, moving back in, or persistent rent arrears.
If you serve a Section 21 notice before 1 May 2026, court proceedings must begin by 31 July 2026. After this date, it will no longer be valid.
Section 8 grounds are being strengthened
The revised Section 8 notice will include clearer grounds to sell or move into a property, and will offer stronger protections for landlords dealing with anti-social behaviour or serious arrears.
New rules around rent increases
From May 2026, landlords must follow the Section 13 process for any in-tenancy rent increase:
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Rent can only be raised once per year
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A minimum of two months’ notice must be given
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Tenants can challenge the increase at the First-tier Tribunal if it’s above open market value
Rent review clauses in tenancy agreements will no longer be valid.
Rent bidding will be banned
It will be illegal for landlords or letting agents to ask for, encourage, or accept offers above the advertised rent. All asking rents must be clearly stated upfront.
Limits on advance rent
Landlords will no longer be able to request more than one month’s rent in advance, with a few exceptions expected in secondary legislation.
What comes next?
From late 2026, we’ll begin to see the rollout of:
A national PRS Database
This new property portal will require all landlords to register their properties and keep details up to date. It’s designed to increase transparency and give councils better oversight of the sector.
A new Landlord Ombudsman (expected from 2028)
The Ombudsman scheme will give tenants a route to resolve disputes without going to court. Landlords will need to register and pay a membership fee.
The Decent Homes Standard
While the timeline is still unconfirmed, the Government has proposed a long-term deadline of 2035–2037 for full compliance. This would apply minimum housing standards across the private rented sector.
What landlords should do now
Although the first major changes won’t kick in until May 2026, now is the time to get prepared.
At Paramount, we’re already helping our owners future-proof their tenancies. From reviewing agreements to planning ahead for notice periods, our team is here to help you feel confident, compliant and in control.
We’ve broken down everything we know so far — and how we’re supporting our clients — on our Renters’ Rights Act 2025 Hub and in our Landlord Hub, where you’ll find updated guidance, expert insights, and resources designed to help you stay one step ahead.
Need help navigating what’s next?
If you’re unsure how this affects your property, want help reviewing your current tenancies, or just need someone to talk it all through with — we’re here.
Get in touch with the team today and we’ll walk you through it, step by step.
