Summary
The Renters’ Rights Act 2026 introduces sweeping changes for private landlords in England from May 1, 2026, requiring all tenancies to become rolling contracts, abolishing Section 21 no-fault evictions, limiting rent increases to once per year via a formal process, banning rental bidding, and strengthening rules around pets and discrimination. This compliance checklist helps landlords review tenancy agreements, eviction procedures, rent review practices, advertising methods, and agent oversight to ensure they meet the new legal requirements, reduce risk, and avoid invalid notices or legal challenges once the law comes into force.
The Renters’ Rights Act 2026 comes into force on May 1, 2026 and applies to all private landlords in England. This checklist helps you ensure your property, paperwork, and processes are compliant.
Use this guide before renewing tenancies, issuing rent increases, or planning possession.
1. Tenancy Structure Compliance
- ☐ Understand that fixed-term tenancies end in May 2026
- ☐ Ensure all tenancies operate as rolling (periodic) contracts
- ☐ Remove minimum-term clauses from new agreements
- ☐ Do not require tenants to renew or “re-sign” contracts
Reminder: Existing fixed-term tenancies automatically convert — no action is required from tenants.
2. Eviction & Possession Readiness
- ☐ Stop using Section 21 notices entirely
- ☐ Identify which legal possession grounds apply to your situation
- ☐ Prepare to give 4 months’ notice where required
- ☐ Note that eviction is restricted within the first 12 months of a tenancy
- ☐ Keep evidence for possession claims (sale plans, arrears records, breaches)
Tip: Poor documentation is now one of the biggest causes of failed eviction cases.
3. Rent Increase Compliance
- ☐ Limit rent increases to once per year
- ☐ Use a valid Section 13 notice for all rent increases
- ☐ Remove rent review clauses from tenancy agreements
- ☐ Keep market evidence to justify increases
- ☐ Be prepared for tribunal challenges
Tenants can challenge unfair increases at a tribunal at no cost.
4. Advertising & Letting Practices
- ☐ Advertise properties with a single fixed asking rent
- ☐ Do not invite or accept rental bids above the listed price
- ☐ Ensure letting agents follow the same rules
- ☐ Keep copies of listings for compliance records
5. Pets Policy Compliance
- ☐ Remove blanket “no pets” policies
- ☐ Assess pet requests on a case-by-case basis
- ☐ Document valid reasons for refusal
- ☐ Consider requiring pet damage insurance where appropriate
Unreasonable refusal may be challenged by tenants.
6. Equality & Discrimination Rules
- ☐ Remove “no children” wording from listings
- ☐ Do not refuse tenants solely due to benefit status
- ☐ Train agents on indirect discrimination risks
- ☐ Keep decision records for tenant selection
7. Documentation & Agent Oversight
- ☐ Update tenancy agreement templates
- ☐ Review agent contracts and responsibilities
- ☐ Ensure notices are issued correctly and on time
- ☐ Keep digital records of all tenant communications
Final Compliance Check
- ☐ Tenancy agreements updated
- ☐ Rent increase process compliant
- ☐ Eviction procedures aligned with new law
- ☐ Advertising and pet policies lawful
If you tick every box above, you are well-positioned to comply with the Renters’ Rights Act 2026.
Landlords unsure about their position should seek professional advice before issuing notices or increasing rent.