The landlord's checklist for 1 May 2026: everything you need to have done

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 took effect on 1 May 2026. If you have not already completed the following, act now.

Immediate requirements

Download and send the government's Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet to every tenant with an existing tenancy. The deadline is 31 May 2026. Keep proof of delivery.

Stop using Section 21 notices. Any Section 21 notice served before 1 May must have court proceedings started by 31 July 2026 to remain valid.

Remove any property listings that invite rent offers above the advertised price. All listings must show a fixed rent figure.

Review your tenancy agreements

Fixed-term provisions are no longer enforceable. You do not need to issue new agreements, but you should understand that all tenancies are now periodic.

Blanket no-pet clauses are no longer enforceable. Prepare a process for handling pet requests.

Update your rent increase process

Rent can only be increased once per year using the Section 13 notice process with at least two months' notice. Contractual rent increase clauses are no longer valid.

Review your possession procedures

Familiarise yourself with the new and expanded Section 8 grounds. Note the 12-month protected period during which sale and move-in grounds cannot be used.

Ensure all compliance documentation is current

Gas safety certificate, EICR, EPC, deposit protection, prescribed information, any required licences. All must be in place and current. Any gap in compliance can now carry penalties of up to £40,000 and trigger rent repayment orders of up to two years.

Stay informed

The regulatory landscape is changing rapidly. The PRS database, landlord ombudsman, and extension of Awaab's Law are all coming in future phases. Subscribe to a regulatory monitoring service to stay ahead of changes.