Renters Rights Act – Phase 1 Date Announced!
Following the Renters Rights Act receiving Royal Assent, the Government has now outlined its broad delivery timetable — and Phase 1 is expected to take effect from 1 May 2026.
While further clarification and guidance will be released over the coming months, here’s an overview of what the first stage is set to include and what landlords should be aware of at this point.
What’s Expected in Phase 1
Phase 1 will introduce a number of significant changes to how private tenancies operate. These are anticipated to include:
- A move away from Section 21 notices for new cases
- Periodic tenancies becoming the standard starting point
- Restrictions on high upfront rent payments
- Rent reviews following a clearer, more consistent process
- A ban on rental bidding
- A formal right for tenants to request a pet, with scope for landlords to decline on reasonable grounds
- Strengthened protections to reduce discrimination
All existing and new private tenancies will transition onto the updated framework from the implementation date.
What Comes After Phase 1
The Government plans to roll out the Act in stages, with further elements — such as new redress routes and property standards — expected to follow later. More detail will emerge as consultations progress.
What Landlords Can Do for Now
The purpose of the long lead-in period is to give landlords time to understand the changes and prepare gradually. Key points to consider at this stage:
- Existing tenancy documentation may need to be updated closer to implementation
- Landlords without written agreements will need to ensure the required information is in place
- Additional guidance is expected, and details may still evolve
For our fully managed clients, we’ll handle the transition and ensure all necessary steps are taken at the right time.
We’ll Keep You Updated
There is more to come, and we’ll continue to share clear, practical updates as the Government releases further information.
If you have any early questions or would like to discuss what these changes may mean for your property, the team is here to help
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