The Renters Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent. The Act abolishes Section 21 no-fault evictions, prohibits new fixed-term tenancies, limits rent increases to once per year via Section 13, requires landlords to consider pet requests, and bans source of income discrimination from 1 June 2026.
The Renters Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent, completing the most significant reform of the private rented sector in England in over three decades.
Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 is abolished. All possession proceedings now require a valid statutory ground under Section 8. All new assured tenancies must be periodic from commencement. Rent increases are limited to once per year using the statutory Section 13 process with a minimum of two months written notice.
From 1 June 2026 it is unlawful to refuse to let to a tenant on the grounds that they receive housing benefit or other welfare payments.
Action required
Review all possession procedures and update Section 8 notice templates. Prepare for periodic-only tenancies on all new lets. Review rent review procedures.
Effective
April 2025 (Royal Assent); individual provisions via commencement orders
Who this affects
All private landlords and letting agents in England
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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.