Major changes to England’s private rented sector will come into force from 1 May 2026 as the government introduces the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
The new law aims to give renters much greater security and stability so they can stay in their homes for longer, build lives in their communities, and avoid the risk of homelessness.
One of the biggest changes is the end of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, meaning tenancies can only be ended for specific legal reasons. All tenancies will move to rolling agreements rather than fixed-term contracts, giving tenants more flexibility while keeping clear processes in place for ending a tenancy when needed. Notice periods will also be more consistent, with most set at around two months, depending on the circumstances.
Rent increases will be limited to once per year and must follow a formal process, with tenants able to challenge them if they believe they are unfair. The new law also prevents rental bidding wars, meaning landlords and agents cannot ask for or accept offers above the advertised rent. Upfront rent payments will be capped at one month, helping to reduce costs at the start of a tenancy.
The Act introduces stronger protections against discrimination, making it unlawful to refuse tenants simply because they have children or receive benefits.
Alongside these changes, all landlords will be required to join a new ombudsman service to help resolve disputes and register on a national database to improve transparency across the sector.
Councils will have a key role in putting the new system into practice, with stronger enforcement powers to act where rules are not followed, including the ability to issue civil penalties. Over time, the law will also support improvements to housing conditions, helping to ensure rented homes are safe and well maintained.
Cllr Jay Hayes, Executive Member for Housing and Planning, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act introduces important changes to how renting works in England, with clearer rules and expectations for everyone involved.
“As a council, we will continue to work with residents, landlords and partners to support the move to the new system and help make sure standards across the private rented sector are met.”
Nottingham City Council has been working closely with local police ahead of the new law coming into force, including providing training to ensure officers and call handlers understand the correct legal processes landlords must follow when ending a tenancy. This includes recognising and responding to cases of illegal eviction and harassment, which are criminal offences.
Chief Inspector Kylie Davies said: “We welcome the support being offered to both landlords and tenants by local authorities.
“From a police perspective, we have trained our call takers in the signs of illegal eviction and the support available.
“We have also prepared guidance for our frontline officers when attending such incidents to protect any vulnerable people at immediate risk.”
Further information, including detailed guidance on how the new system will work in practice, is available on the Nottingham City Council and government websites.
