The Renters' Rights Act changed the rules for private landlords in England from 1 May 2026. Here's what changed, what you must do, and the certificate deadlines that still apply.
Key dates
| Date | What changed or is due |
|---|---|
| 1 May 2026 | Section 21 abolished; all tenancies periodic; new rent increase and pet rules |
| 31 May 2026 | Give the Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet to tenants on existing written tenancies |
| Every new tenancy | Written statement of terms at the start |
| Later (dates TBC) | Private rented sector database, landlord ombudsman, Decent Homes Standard |
What changed for landlords
- Periodic tenancies only. No fixed end dates; existing ASTs became assured periodic tenancies.
- No section 21. Possession needs a section 8 ground; many grounds need 4 months' notice, and sale or moving-in grounds can't be used in the first 12 months.
- Rent increases at most once a year, using Form 4A (section 13), with at least 2 months' notice.
- No rent before signing, no rental bidding, no refusing tenants on benefits or with children, and pet requests can only be refused with a valid reason.
Certificates and checks
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Gas safety check | Every 12 months; can be done up to 2 months early and keep the due date; record to tenants within 28 days |
| EICR | At least every 5 years; copy to tenants within 28 days; remedial work within 28 days |
| EPC | Valid 10 years; must be E or above unless an exemption is registered |
| Smoke / CO alarms | Smoke alarm on every storey; CO alarm in rooms with a fixed combustion appliance (not gas cookers); test on day one |
| Deposit | Protect within 30 days and give prescribed information within 30 days |
This is a summary for organising, not legal advice. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different rules.
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See the Landlord Compliance Checklist →