Renters’ Rights ACT

New Renters’ Rights Act. New responsibilities for landlords.

Are you ready for the major changes to the rental market?

The Renters’ Rights Act is now in force, bringing significant reform to the private rental sector. It’s essential to ensure you and your properties are fully compliant.

The first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act, introduced from 1 May 2026, includes:
• Section 21 abolished
• Move to indefinite tenancies
• Ban on rental bidding and advanced rent payments

The Renters’ Rights Act is now in force, don’t leave your investment exposed.

“This new legislation will reshape the way landlords manage their properties and help is at hand. At Humphrey & Brand, we’ve been tracking developments closely and are ready to help you navigate the new landscape with confidence.”

Lisa Brand
Director

Main changes and our solutions:

Fixed-Term ASTs Become Rolling Tenancies

All existing fixed-term ASTs will automatically convert into open-ended periodic tenancies. This means tenants can leave with two months’ notice at any time.

Our solution: We’ll actively relist and market each property as soon as notice is received to minimise any empty period.

Rent increases limited to once a year

Rent can only be raised once annually and must reflect local market levels. The only formal method is via a Section 13 notice.

Our solution: We’ll conduct a fair, up-to-date rent review each year and submit the required notice on your behalf to help you keep income in line.

No-fault evictions (Section 21) are abolished

Landlords must now rely on Section 8 evictions using specific grounds—such as rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or needing the property back.

Our solution: We’ll advise on the appropriate ground and notice period for each case, and carry out pre-emptive tenant referencing to reduce eviction risk.

Inclusive tenancies: No unjust rejections

The Bill prohibits turning away applicants who receive benefits, have children, or request pets. Existing ‘no-pets’ clauses become unenforceable.

Our solution: We’ll guide you through fair lettings practice, and suggest pet insurance where applicable to dampen damage risk.

Landlord Registry mandatory

Every landlord and property must be registered on a government database, which includes any enforcement actions or notices served.

Our solution: We’ll ensure that as one of our managed landlords, all your details and properties are consistently and correctly listed.

Ombudsman for fair dispute resolution

A statutory ombudsman will be set up as a formal mechanism for resolving landlord–tenant disputes without court involvement.

Our solution: We’ll support you through any complaint process involving the ombudsman to ensure smooth and impartial resolution.

Advance rent payments restricted

Charging more than one month’s rent in advance is prohibited. Student residents can’t be locked into agreements or payments more than six months ahead.

Our solution: We’ll ensure tenants pass full referencing criteria so added financial safeguards aren’t necessary, and we’ll relist student rentals promptly if they vacate.

What the Renters’ Rights Act Means for You

Download our guide for in-depth information on what the Renters’ Rights Act means for you.

Renters’ Rights Act in detail

Meet your Humphrey & Brand lettings team

A group of dedicated and skilled professionals committed to delivering exceptional service and results for your property needs.

Laura Humphrey

Director

t: 020 8399 1888

Lisa Brand

Director

t: 020 8399 1888

Paige Downton

Head of Lettings Department

t: 020 8399 1888

Peter Tague

Compliance Officer

t: 020 8399 1888

Rae Hunter

Office Manager

t: 020 8399 1888

Yariela Evans

Lettings Consultant

t: 020 8399 1888

Landlords: Take Action Now!

As the Renters’ Rights Act becomes law, now is the time to ensure your property is protected. Humphrey & Brand’s full management service is designed to keep you fully compliant, informed, and ahead of the curve. If you’re unsure whether your current letting agent is fully prepared for these changes, we’re here to help. Contact our lettings team today to find out how we can support you now that the law has changed.

Call us on 020 8399 1888 or complete the form below…

Renters’ Rights ACT

Are you ready for the major changes to the rental market?

Main changes and our solutions:

What the Renters’ Rights Act Means for You

Meet your Humphrey & Brand lettings team

Landlords: Take Action Now!

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