Firstly, what is the Renters’ Rights Act 2025?
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is a major piece of legislation designed to reform the private rented sector in England. It forms part of the Government’s wider aim to create a fairer, more secure rental market for tenants, while introducing clearer rules and responsibilities for landlords.
The Act builds on earlier proposals to modernise tenancy law, particularly around issues such as insecure housing, rent transparency and eviction practices. One of its objectives is to rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants by strengthening tenant protections and introducing greater consistency across the sector.
Since the Act was passed, there has been a phased approach to implementation. Throughout 2025 and early 2026, guidance has been issued to landlords and tenants to help prepare for the changes. Key provisions are now due to come into force from 1 May 2026, with additional compliance requirements - such as the mandatory Information Sheet - following shortly after.
For many landlords, the coming months represent a transition period, where it is important to understand not only what the law will require going forward, but also how existing tenancies will be affected.
One of these most immediate requirements is the need to provide tenants with a Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet. Failure to do so could result in substantial financial penalties. Here is all the information landlords and tenants need to know:
The new requirement: Information Sheet deadline
Landlords must serve tenants with the official Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet by 31 May 2026.
This document, produced by the UK Government, explains the upcoming changes in the law and how they affect tenants’ rights and existing tenancies. It is intended to ensure tenants are fully informed about the new legal framework.
This requirement applies to the private rented sector, specifically to assured and assured shorthold tenancies. It does not apply to social housing tenants or lodgers.
How must the Information Sheet be served?
It is essential that landlords follow the rules carefully.
The Information Sheet must be:
- The official government PDF, downloaded directly from GOV.UK
- Unaltered – in that it must not be edited, branded or replaced
- Provided as a PDF document, either electronically, by hand or by post.
Importantly, simply sending a link to the document is not sufficient.
Landlords should also keep clear records confirming that the document has been delivered and received, in case compliance needs to be demonstrated later.
Failure to provide the Information Sheet correctly could result in a fine of up to £7,000.
Key changes from 1 May 2026
The Information Sheet outlines several major changes that will automatically apply to tenancies from 1 May 2026.
End of fixed term tenancies
Fixed term assured and assured shorthold tenancies will be abolished. All tenancies will become rolling (periodic) tenancies, meaning they will continue indefinitely until ended by the tenant or landlord in accordance with the law.
Abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without providing a reason. Section 21 notices will be removed, and landlords will instead need to rely on specific legal grounds for possession under Section 8.
New rules on rent increases
Rent review clauses will no longer apply. Instead, landlords must follow a formal statutory process, meaning rent can generally only be increased once per year, with at least two months’ written notice. Tenants will also have the right to challenge increases they believe exceed market value.
Greater security for tenants
Tenants will benefit from stronger protections, including the right to remain in the property unless the landlord can demonstrate a valid legal reason for possession. In addition, tenants will have new rights to request to keep pets, which landlords cannot unreasonably refuse.
Mandatory written terms for new tenancies
For new assured periodic tenancies starting on or after 1 May 2026, landlords must provide a written statement of terms before the tenancy begins. This ensures clarity and transparency from the outset.
What about existing tenancies?
The new rules will apply automatically to existing tenancies from 1 May 2026, even if tenancy agreements are not updated.
However, there are important exceptions. For example, if a landlord has already served a Section 21 or Section 8 notice before 1 May 2026, the previous rules may still apply in that case.
Given the complexity of transitional arrangements, landlords should seek advice where notices have already been served or where there is uncertainty about how the changes apply.
Why acting early matters
The introduction of the Information Sheet requirement highlights a broader theme of the new legislation: compliance and transparency are key.
Landlords should not treat the 31 May deadline as a simple administrative task. Instead, it should be seen as an opportunity to review tenancy arrangements, ensure documentation is up to date, and confirm that all legal obligations are being met.
Failing to act in time could result not only in financial penalties but also in difficulties enforcing tenancy rights in the future.
How Coles Miller can help
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces wide-ranging changes that will affect both existing and new tenancies.
Our property litigation and residential property teams can support landlords in understanding and complying with these new requirements. We can advise on how the changes affect your tenancies, assist with reviewing and updating tenancy documentation, and ensure that the correct procedures are followed when serving notices or managing possession issues.
We can also provide guidance where notices have already been served, helping you navigate the transitional rules and avoid costly mistakes.
Preparing for the future
The Renters’ Rights Act represents a fundamental shift in the private rented sector. With deadlines approaching and enforcement becoming stricter, early preparation is essential.
If you are a landlord and would like advice on your obligations under the new legislation, or assistance with compliance, our experienced Property and Landlord/Tenant teams would be happy to help.
Get Expert Legal Advice
If you are a Landlord or Landlord Agent, and seek professional advice on your properties, or a tenant seeking help with your rental contract, please contact Tracey Ford at Coles Miller Solicitors LLP.
