No new statutory instruments this week. This edition covers the confirmed implementation timeline for the Renters' Rights Act 2025 and the preparation steps landlords should be taking now.
Renters' Rights Act 2025: what is confirmed
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent in late 2025. The government has not yet published the commencement order confirming the exact implementation date, but guidance is expected imminently. The headline changes applying to all private landlords in England are:
Section 21 abolished. No new Section 21 notices may be served after the commencement date. Existing notices served before commencement remain valid for their stated period.
All tenancies become periodic. Fixed-term assured tenancies will no longer be available for new lettings. Existing fixed-term tenancies will convert to periodic tenancies at the end of their current term.
Section 8 grounds revised. New mandatory and discretionary possession grounds have been added. The notice period for key grounds has changed. Landlords should review the updated Schedule 2 to the Housing Act 1988 as amended.
Rent increases restricted. Landlords may only increase rent once per year and must use the prescribed Section 13 process. Rent review clauses in existing tenancy agreements will have no effect.
Preparation steps for landlords
- Identify all tenancies with fixed terms expiring after the commencement date
- Update tenancy agreement templates to remove fixed-term and Section 21 references
- Review your letting agent's standard documentation if you use one
- Brief your letting agent on the revised possession grounds and notice periods
- Confirm your deposit protection is current — existing requirements remain unchanged
The government has committed to providing advance notice before commencement. Landlord Insights will brief subscribers when the commencement order is laid.
Landlord Insights — landlordinsights.co.uk — Not legal advice.
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always verify information against the original source and seek independent professional guidance before acting on any regulatory matter.