Pin Point - 27th November 2025

Renters' Rights Act Now!

It's been one month since the Renters' Rights Act received Royal Ascent and in that time we have seen lots of guidance issued including a roadmap giving details of when the new reforms will be implemented. 

The Government has announced that the Renters' Rights Act will be introduced in 3 phases and these key milestones taken from the official guidance are listed below:

Phase 1

27th December 2026:

• New investigatory powers for local councils go live including a stronger ability to inspect properties, demand documents, and access third-party data.

1st May 2026: 

• abolish section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
• introduce new Assured Periodic Tenancies in the private rented sector (PRS)
• reform possession grounds in the PRS so they are fair for both parties
• limit rent increases to once a year in the PRS –
• ban rental bidding and rent in advance
• make it illegal to discriminate against renters who have children or receive benefits
• require landlords in the PRS to consider tenant requests to rent with a pet
• civil penalties will be expanded, Rent repayment orders will be extended to superior landlords and the maximum penalty will be doubled

Phase 2

From late 2026

• Stage 1: Regional Rollout of the Database for Landlords and Local Councils
• Stage 2: Further Roll out of the Database and Introduction of the Ombudsman

Phase 3

• A new Decent Homes Standard in the PRS (dates settled following consultation)
• Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) of EPC C or equivalent by 2030
• implementation of the updated Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
• Awaab’s Law extended to the private rented sector

Preparing for implementation

Guidance for landlords and letting agents, and tenants will be issued - remember to be careful about where you source your information. We would recommend official Government guidance, and use your landlord association memberships.

The government will continue to fund the Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service 14 (HLPAS) which provides anyone at risk of losing their home with free legal advice, and representation in court.

The council are being made aware of changes at the same time as the public and are busy preparing for the changes behind the scenes. 

Read the full implementation guidance using the links on this page and make sure others sign up for information and alerts too!