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The Renters' Rights Bill represents the biggest change to private renting in England for a generation. The abolition of Section 21 is the headline, but there are significant changes for both landlords and tenants across the board. Updated April 2026 Key Changes Under the Renters' Rights Bill
Section 21 — Before and After
Section 8 Grounds — Key Ones for Landlords
What Changes for TenantsNo more no-fault eviction: Landlords cannot evict you simply because they want to. Every eviction must have a legal ground. Periodic tenancies: New tenancies become monthly rolling by default. You give 2 months' notice to leave — giving you more flexibility than a fixed term. Pets: You can request permission for a pet in writing. Your landlord cannot unreasonably refuse, though they can require appropriate pet insurance. Rent increases: Rent can only rise once per year and must be to market rate — you can challenge at a tribunal if you believe an increase is excessive. Ombudsman: All private landlords must join the new mandatory ombudsman scheme. What Changes for LandlordsLandlords face significant operational changes: mandatory ombudsman membership; no Section 21; must meet the Decent Homes Standard; rent increases restricted to once per year at market rate; must consider all pet requests (and can require pet damage insurance). The transition period means existing tenancies will need to comply with the new rules once the Bill comes into force. Landlords should review all tenancy agreements and consider whether their standard practices remain lawful. KAELTRIPTON VERDICT The Renters' Rights Bill abolishes Section 21 and introduces the biggest tenant protections in a generation. For tenants: greater security of tenure, pet rights, and formal complaints processes. For landlords: Section 8 grounds for eviction are still available including for sale, personal use and rent arrears — but evictions will take longer. All landlords must understand the new grounds and update their processes before implementation. Section 21 Ending — Know Your Rights Q: When does Section 21 end? A: Expected approximately May 2026 following the Renters' Rights Bill receiving Royal Assent. Check gov.uk for current confirmed date. Q: What grounds can landlords use to evict after Section 21? A: Section 8 grounds: rent arrears (Ground 8), wanting to sell (Ground 1A), moving in (Ground 1), anti-social behaviour (Ground 14), among others. Q: What changes for tenants? A: No more no-fault eviction; all tenancies become periodic; right to request pets; rent increases limited to once per year; mandatory landlord ombudsman. Q: Can landlords still increase rent? A: Yes — once every 12 months, at market rate only. Tenants can challenge excessive increases at a First-tier Tribunal. Related Articles This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or property advice. House prices and mortgage rates change frequently. Always seek independent financial advice before making property decisions. All figures verified April 2026. |
Renters Rights Bill UK 2026: What Tenants & Landlords Need to Know
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