No new statutory instruments this week. This edition covers the Q1 compliance calendar for landlords across all four countries and sets out the key devolved regulatory positions as of January 2026.
Q1 2026 compliance calendar
With the Renters' Rights Act guidance now published, the first quarter of 2026 is the preparation window before the 1 May implementation date. The following dates are relevant for landlords in the coming weeks:
Scotland
The Housing (Scotland) Act 2024 rent control provisions remain in force. Rent increases in designated rent control areas require a Rent Officer decision. The Private Residential Tenancy framework continues to operate as the baseline regime. Landlords in Scotland should ensure compliance with the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) notice requirements.
Wales
The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 governs all Welsh tenancies. Occupation contracts replaced assured tenancies in Wales in December 2022. Landlords letting in Wales operate under the occupation contract regime, not the Housing Act 1988. Rent Smart Wales registration and licensing obligations apply to all landlords and self-managing agents.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland continues to operate under the Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006. There is no equivalent to the Renters' Rights Act in Northern Ireland. The proposed Private Tenancies Bill was in early stages as of January 2026. Landlord Insights monitors NI Direct and the Northern Ireland Assembly for updates.
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.