Renters Rights Act 2025
Following the Renters' Rights Act 2025 receiving Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, we are writing to provide you with the confirmed implementation roadmap and key dates for the most significant reforms to the private rented sector in decades.
This legislation introduces substantial changes to tenancies, possession grounds, and compliance requirements. Below is a summary of the official timeline to ensure you are fully prepared for the transition.
Phase 1: Commencement of Core Tenancy Reforms
The most critical date for all landlords to note is the commencement of Phase 1, which will fundamentally change how tenancies operate:
Date | Key Milestone | Impact on Landlords |
1 May 2026 | Commencement of New Tenancy System | All existing Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will automatically convert into the new Assured Periodic Tenancy system (rolling contracts). |
1 May 2026 | Abolition of Section 21 | The use of 'no-fault' Section 21 eviction notices will be abolished. Landlords will need to rely on the new and revised Section 8 grounds to regain possession. |
1 May 2026 | New Possession Grounds | New grounds for possession (e.g., landlord/family moving in, sale of property) will take effect, alongside revised mandatory grounds for serious rent arrears or anti-social behaviour. |
1 May 2026 | Rent Increases | Rent reviews will be limited to once per year and must follow the prescribed Section 13 notice process. |
1 May 2026 | Tenant's Right to Request a Pet | Tenants will gain the legal right to request a pet, and landlords will not be able to unreasonably refuse the request. |
Phase 2: Introduction of New Regulatory Tools
The second phase introduces new infrastructure to manage the private rented sector, which will impact compliance and disputes.
Phase | Key Milestone | Expected Timeline |
Phase 2 | Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Database | From late 2026 onwards |
Phase 2 | PRS Landlord Ombudsman | From late 2026 onwards |
The government has confirmed that all landlords will be legally required to register with the new database and join the Landlord Ombudsman scheme once they are fully operational and ready to accept members. We will share detailed guidance on these registration requirements closer to the time.
Our team is actively reviewing all official guidance and preparing internal processes to ensure a seamless transition for your properties.
For further information please visit the Government website: -
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6915beb8bc34c86ce4e6e730/Implementing_Renters_Rights_Act_2025_-_roadmap.pdf
Posted: 14/11/2025 12:27
