1st May 2026 - Renter’s Rights Bill Phase 1
Major Reforms Arriving on 1 May 2026
The UK Government has confirmed that the first stage of the Renters’ Rights reforms will go live on 1 May 2026, marking one of the most significant updates to tenancy legislation in decades. From this date, every private tenancy in England—both existing and newly signed—will shift onto the new tenancy framework.
This announcement provides long-awaited clarity for the sector. With a firm timeline now in place, agents and landlords can begin preparing systems, processes, and communications for the transition.
A Three-Stage Rollout
The reforms will be introduced gradually under a three-phase implementation plan.
Phase One, beginning in May 2026, will introduce the core tenancy changes, including:
The move to periodic-only tenancies
A cap on rent in advance
A ban on rental bidding
A more transparent process for rent increases through Section 13
Stronger anti-discrimination rules for applicants
New rights relating to pets in rented homes
As further phases are released, continued engagement between the sector and Government is expected to help ensure the reforms support stability, investment confidence, and good-quality management.
What Changes on 1 May 2026?
All existing assured shorthold tenancies will automatically switch to the new periodic system.
All new tenancies created on or after this date must follow the updated requirements, including the rent-in-advance limit and the revised processes for rent adjustments and pet requests.
This represents a major reset point for the private rented sector. Agents should begin reviewing their documentation, operational workflows, and client guidance now to ensure a smooth transition for landlords and tenants.
Section 21 – Still Valid for a while
Although the law is changing, Section 21 will not vanish immediately.
Any notice issued before 1 May 2026 will remain valid for up to six months or until the tenant leaves.
This staged approach provides breathing room during the transition and helps prevent last-minute pressure on possession routes.
Written Agreements and Documentation Requirements
Under the legislation:
Every new tenancy must have a written tenancy agreement containing prescribed information that will be set out in forthcoming secondary legislation.
Existing tenancy agreements do not need to be replaced. Instead, landlords will be required to provide tenants with a Government-issued information sheet summarising how the reforms apply to their tenancy.
If a tenancy does not currently have a written agreement—for example, a verbal arrangement or a protected Rent Act tenancy—the landlord must supply a written document covering all required details.
More guidance on the content of the information sheet will follow once confirmed by Government.
What’s Coming Next?
Two further stages will complete the reform programme:
Phase Two – Late 2026
Launch of the Landlord Ombudsman
Introduction of the new Private Rented Sector Database
Phase Three – TBC
Implementation of the Decent Homes Standard
Introduction of Awaab’s Law across the private rented sector
https://www.fortemproperty.co.uk/news-updates/blog-post-rentersrightsact
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