Landlords will face new regulations that significantly impact renters’ rights within six months, as announced by the government. Starting from May 1, 2026, landlords will be prohibited from issuing Section 21 eviction notices, which allow them to evict tenants without cause. Additionally, the Renters’ Reform Act will outlaw bidding wars between potential tenants and limit rent increases to once per year.
Under the new legislation, landlords will be forbidden from discriminating against tenants based on benefits or having children. They will also be required to reasonably consider tenants’ requests to own pets. The Renters’ Reform Act, a long-awaited manifesto commitment, officially became law recently after similar pledges from previous governments failed to materialize.
Critics have blamed Section 21 notices, commonly known as “no-fault evictions,” for endangering numerous families each year. Housing Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the importance of providing security and peace of mind to all renters. Local councils in England will be tasked with enforcing the new rules starting in May next year, with the authority to levy fines of up to £7,000 for violations.
Ben Twomey, Chief Executive of Generation Rent, hailed the new law as a crucial step towards rebalancing the power dynamic between renters and landlords. He highlighted the fear and uncertainty caused by Section 21 evictions and expressed relief that this outdated practice will soon be eradicated.
Homelessness Minister Alison McGovern underscored the significance of ending discrimination against tenants receiving benefits or with children. She stressed the need to eliminate such exclusions from society and ensure fair treatment in the rental sector. McGovern highlighted the imminent changes brought by the Renters’ Rights Act, emphasizing its focus on equality and fairness in housing.
The impending reforms mark a monumental shift towards equality and fairness in the rental system, with a strong emphasis on protecting tenants’ rights and ensuring secure and decent housing for all.