Renters' Rights Act: What Landlords Need to Know in 2026

Last updated: March 2026 | Reviewed by HouseData editorial team

The Renters' Rights Bill has introduced significant changes to the UK private rental sector. If you're a landlord, understanding these changes is essential to staying compliant and running your business smoothly. This guide covers the key changes, timelines, and what you need to do now.

The Big Changes: At a Glance

1. Abolition of Section 21 "No-Fault" Evictions

What's Changing?

The Section 21 eviction route — where landlords could end a tenancy without providing a reason — has been abolished. You can no longer use Section 21 to evict tenants during or after their fixed term ends.

How Will You End Tenancies?

To end a tenancy now, you must have a valid reason under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988. Valid grounds include:

• Non-payment of rent (typically 2+ months arrears)
• Breach of tenancy agreement (e.g., unauthorised occupants, damage)
• Nuisance or anti-social behaviour
• Notice to terminate expired
• Your intention to occupy the property yourself (with 6 months' notice)
• Sale of the property (6 months' notice)

For landlords: You must now have proper documentation if eviction is needed. Keep detailed records of rent payments, any breaches, communication with tenants, and property condition reports. If you need to evict for rent arrears or breach, you'll need clear evidence.

What About Current Tenancies?

Section 21 remains available for tenancies that began before 1 June 2024 and have expired. However, new tenancies or those renewed after the cut-off date cannot be ended via Section 21. Most tenancies are now subject to Section 8 only.

2. Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database

What Is It?

The PRS Database is a new government register of all private rental properties in England. It records landlord contact details, joint owners, property addresses, and management details.

Do You Need to Register?

Yes. All landlords must register their rental properties by [statutory deadline — check with your local authority]. The database helps councils enforce standards and tackling rogue landlords.

How to Register?

Registration is typically done online via your local council's portal or via a central portal (details to be confirmed by local authorities). You'll need:

• Property address and details
• Landlord(s) name(s) and contact information
• Proof of ownership (title deeds or mortgage documents)
• Details of any managing agent (if applicable)

Registration is free but failure to register can result in fines and enforcement action. Some councils may withhold licensing or run compliance checks on unregistered properties.

3. Deposit Protection & Prescribed Information

New Rules

Deposit protection rules have been strengthened:

• Prescribed information must be provided within 14 days (previously 30 days) of the deposit being received
• Plain English requirements: Information must be clear, accessible, and understandable to the average tenant
• Prescribed information checklist: You must confirm you've provided all required information in writing

Failure to Protect Deposits

If you fail to protect a deposit or provide prescribed information, tenants can claim up to 3× the deposit amount (uncapped) at court. This is a significant financial risk — ensure proper compliance immediately.

4. Rent Increase Controls

New Limits

While no blanket rent control has been introduced, the government has proposed annual rent increase caps (details to be confirmed). Current guidance suggests increases should be reasonable and in line with inflation.

Notice Requirements

• You must give tenants at least 2 months' notice of any rent increase
• Rent increases cannot take effect within the first 6 months of a new tenancy
• Tenants have the right to challenge "excessive" increases at tribunal

5. Fitness for Habitation & Standards

The government is strengthening the implied right to a safe and habitable home. This includes:

• Protection against damp and mould
• Heating and hot water functionality
• Safe electrical and gas installations
• Protection from hazards
• EPC compliance (current minimum: E; 2030: C)

Landlords are responsible for repairs and fitness standards. Failure to maintain standards can result in enforcement notices and fines.

6. Energy Efficiency Requirements (MEES Extension)

Current Rules (2026)

Rental properties must have an EPC rating of at least E. Rating F and G properties cannot be let legally (without exemptions).

2030 Proposed Changes

All rental properties will need to meet EPC C by 2030. This is still proposed legislation, but landlords should begin planning upgrades now.

Start planning early: With potentially millions of properties needing upgrades by 2030, installer availability and costs may rise. Upgrading your portfolio now, before the rush, could save money and hassle.

7. Right to Six-Month Notice for Landlord Occupation

If you wish to end a tenancy because you'll occupy the property yourself, you must now give tenants 6 months' notice (previously 2 months under Section 21). Additionally, you cannot end the tenancy for this reason within the first 18 months of the tenancy.

What Landlords Should Do Now

1. Review All Tenancy Agreements

Ensure your tenancy terms comply with current legislation. Update clauses to reflect Section 8 eviction grounds and deposit protection rule changes. Consider having templates reviewed by a solicitor.

2. Register with the PRS Database

Contact your local council to register your properties immediately. Do not wait for enforcement action.

3. Check Deposit Protection Compliance

Ensure all deposits held prior to the Bill's implementation are now protected and prescribed information has been served. For any held unprotected, consult a solicitor about regularisation.

4. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of:

• Rent payments and arrears
• Maintenance and repair requests/communications
• Property inspections
• Tenancy breaches
• Correspondence with tenants

5. Plan EPC Upgrades

Conduct Energy Performance Certificate assessments for all rental properties. Identify which need upgrading to meet the 2030 target of EPC C. Get quotes from installers and explore government grant funding.

6. Consider Professional Management

If managing tenancies yourself feels overwhelming, consider hiring a managing agent. They'll handle compliance, rent collection, and tenant disputes (at a cost, typically 10% of rent).