The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 comes into force on 1 May 2026 and represents one of the most significant reforms to the private rented sector in England in recent years. The new regime strengthens tenant protections while introducing a clearer, more structured framework for landlords. For both landlords and tenants, understanding the practical impact of these changes is essential to avoid disputes and ensure compliance. Key Changes Under the Act Abolition of “No-Fault” Evictions Section 21 “no-fault” evictions under the Housing Act 1988 have now been abolished. Landlords can no longer terminate tenancies without relying on a valid statutory ground. Possession must instead be based on defined reasons, such as rent arrears, breach of tenancy, anti-social behaviour, or a landlord’s intention to sell or occupy the property. Move to a Single System of Periodic Tenancies Assured shorthold tenancies have been replaced by a system of periodic tenancies. Tenants now have greater flexibility to leave on notice, while landlords must rely on statutory grounds if they wish to recover possession. Revised Grounds for Possession The Act introduces expanded and clarified grounds for possession, including specific provisions for landlords who intend to sell or move back into a property. There are also strengthened routes for dealing with persistent rent arrears and anti-social behaviour. Rent Increase Reforms Rent increases are now limited to once per year and must follow a prescribed notice procedure. Tenants have enhanced rights to challenge increases they consider excessive. Private Rented Sector Ombudsman A new ombudsman scheme provides a more accessible route for resolving disputes, reducing the need for court proceedings in appropriate cases. Decent Homes Standard Landlords are now subject to stricter obligations regarding property condition, aligning the private rented sector more closely with standards long applied in social housing. What This Means in Practice For Landlords The new regime requires a more rigorous, compliance-driven approach to tenancy management. Recovering possession will depend on strict adherence to statutory grounds and procedural requirements. Poorly evidenced claims or procedural errors are likely to result in delay or failure in possession proceedings. Immediate steps include:

Reviewing existing tenancy agreements and documentation
Assessing reliance on possession grounds in place of Section 21
Ensuring systems are in place for compliant rent increases and notices

For Tenants Tenants benefit from greater security and clarity, particularly in relation to eviction and rent increases. However, obligations remain critical. Rent arrears, breaches of tenancy, and anti-social behaviour continue to provide valid grounds for possession. Tenants should:

Familiarise themselves with notice requirements and rights of challenge
Ensure compliance with tenancy terms
Raise property condition concerns promptly where standards are not met

A Period of Adjustment As with any major legislative reform, a period of legal and practical adjustment is inevitable. Early legal advice is likely to be key in avoiding common pitfalls, particularly in the early stages of implementation. How We Can Help Our Litigation and Dispute Resolution department advises both landlords and tenants on all aspects of the new regime and the wider framework of residential tenancy law. We can assist with:

Advising landlords on compliant tenancy structures and possession strategies
Supporting tenants in understanding and enforcing their rights
Drafting and reviewing tenancy agreements
Handling possession proceedings and disputes
Providing strategic advice on risk management and regulatory compliance

Given the Act is now in force, early advice is essential to ensure compliance and avoid costly disputes. For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please contact us on 01708 446781 or by email mail@mosco.co.uk This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always seek tailored advice before making legal decisions.

Renters’ Rights Act 2025 in Force: What It Means for Landlords & Tenants