At the end of last week, further details were released on the Renters’ Rights Act. The update provided more information on what is changing and when these changes are likely to come into effect. We’re letting you know more about the Renters’ Rights Act timeline and how we are responding.
Intus Lettings is a dedicated, nationwide letting agency supporting both landlords and tenants. We ensure that we remain ahead of all developments so that we can continue offering the most comprehensive services.
What is changing with the Act?
- The Act abolishes “no-fault” evictions under Housing Act 1988 Section 21 notices in the private rented sector in England.
- All fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will become Assured Periodic Tenancies when the Act commences.
- New grounds for possession (under Section 8) will be adjusted and extended.
- Rent increase rules will change: for example, increases will be limited to once per year (via a prescribed process), and tenants will have the right to challenge increases via a tribunal.
- The Act bans rental bidding (i.e., tenants offering more than the advertised rent) and limits rent in advance payments for new tenancies.
- Discrimination against families with children or benefit recipients will be prohibited.
- Tenants will have the right to request pets in their rental homes, and landlords/agents will need to consider these requests fairly.
- There will be enhanced enforcement powers for local authorities, and a future requirement for a private rented sector database and ombudsman scheme.
Implementation timelines for the new regulations
- Phase 1 – Tenancy reform: From 1st May 2026 the main provisions kick in (end of Section 21, Assured Shorthold Tenancies become periodic, new rent-increase rules, pet-requests, ban rental bidding, new possession grounds).
- By 31st May 2026: landlords/agents will need to have provided existing tenants with the required ‘information sheet’ setting out changes and, where no written tenancy agreement exists, provide a written statement of terms.
- Later phases (from late 2026 onwards): launch of the PRS database, mandatory landlord/property registration, implementation of the ombudsman scheme, court process reform.
- Even further ahead (post-2027/2030s): introduction of a decent homes standard for the private rented sector (EPC, hazards, etc.).
What this means for us
We will be adjusting our tenancy-management processes. This includes reviewing how we draft tenancy agreements, how we serve notices and how we advise landlords on the new regime.
In the rental sector, compliance is really important. As a trusted letting agency, it’s our job to ensure that landlords remain compliant. As a result, we will be updating our internal guidance, systems and workflows. Updates will be made to how notices are handled, how rental increases can be made and how we advertise properties. We will ensure full compliance with the new law.
We recognise the importance of continuous learning, which is why we will be running specialised training sessions for our employees on how to handle scenarios under the new regime. We will also be highlighting the importance of clear communication with both landlords and tenants, ensuring that everyone is aware of the changes and any actions they may need to take.
We encourage our teams to ensure that they are familiar with the new changes and that they stay alert for any secondary regulations.
At Intus Lettings, we take an agile approach and are therefore ready to learn more about the changes and assess how they fit into our workflows.
Please don’t hesitate to contact your local branch if you have any questions about the Renters’ Rights Act and its timeline. We will be more than happy to help.
