Renters’ Rights Act 2025: key changes for landlords
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 introduces major legal changes for private landlords in England.
Most of these changes come into force from 1 May 2026.
As a landlord in Newham, you are responsible for making sure your tenancies, property standards and letting practices comply with the new law.
This page explains the key changes and what they mean for you. It is general guidance only and not legal advice.
| Before 1 May 2026 | From 1 May 2026 |
|---|---|
| Section 21 could be used to evict tenants without reason | Section 21 abolished – use Section 8 with a legal ground |
| Most tenancies were fixed term (ASTs) | Most tenancies become assured periodic tenancies (no fixed end date) |
| Rent increases could be agreed at any time | Rent can usually only be increased once per year with 2 months’ notice |
| No set limits on rent in advance | Limits apply to rent in advance for new tenancies |
| Tenants could be asked to bid above advertised rent | Bidding wars banned – advertise and let at fixed price |
| You could refuse applicants with children or on benefits | Discrimination against these groups is now unlawful |
| Pets could be refused without explanation | Tenants can request pets – you must respond with a valid reason |
