The Renters Rights Act: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know RIGHT NOW

A new era for the private rented sector has arrived. The Renters Rights Act is now in force, bringing with it some of the most far-reaching changes the lettings industry has seen in decades. Whether you are a landlord in Ealing or a tenant in Sherborne, it is important to understand what has changed and how it affects you.

No more no-fault evictions

Perhaps the biggest headline is the removal of Section 21, which previously allowed landlords to end a tenancy without giving a specific reason. That option no longer exists. Instead, all possession claims must now be made under Section 8, which requires landlords to provide clear grounds and supporting evidence before seeking to regain their property.

This is a significant shift, but it is one that encourages fairness and transparency on both sides of the tenancy relationship.

Rolling tenancies are now the standard

Fixed-term tenancy agreements have been replaced by rolling periodic tenancies across the board. This means tenancies continue on a month-to-month basis rather than being locked into a set period. For tenants, this offers greater flexibility. For landlords and agents, it changes the way renewals and notice periods are managed.

Updated rules on rent arrears

Where rent arrears are concerned, new thresholds now apply. A minimum of three months of arrears is needed before a landlord can pursue mandatory possession, and a four-week notice period is required for arrears-related grounds. Courts will also retain discretion in cases involving lower levels of arrears, meaning each situation will be assessed on its own merits.

Accurate record-keeping and clear communication have never been more important for landlords navigating this process.

Changes to rent increases and marketing practices

Rent increases are now limited to once a year, and the practice of rental bidding has been banned. There are also strengthened anti-discrimination provisions, placing additional responsibility on agents and landlords to handle applications consistently and transparently.

These measures are designed to create a fairer lettings market, which is something we fully support.

What this means for our landlords and tenants

At our offices in Acton, Ealing, Northfields and Sherborne, we have been preparing for these changes for some time. Our team is fully trained on the revised legal framework, and we are here to ensure that every tenancy we manage is compliant from the outset.

For landlords, this means you can rely on us to guide you through the new regulations with confidence. For tenants, it means greater security and a more transparent renting experience.

We see this as a positive step towards a more balanced and professional lettings sector. With over 40 years of experience since 1983, we know that good practice and strong relationships between landlords and tenants lead to better outcomes for everyone.

If you have questions about how the Renters Rights Act affects you, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your nearest office. We are always happy to help.

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