Renters’ Rights Act: changes for private tenants
On the 1st of May 2026, the government is introducing new regulations for the privately rented housing sector. These changes will affect all private tenancies, including those signed prior to 1st May 2026.
The key changes which are most likely to impact your tenancy are:
- The ending of no-fault evictions – instead, private landlords will need a reason to evict you
- Rent increases can only take place once a year and 2 months’ notice must be given
- New tenants will get a written statement of terms before agreeing to a tenancy
- No more fixed-term tenancies – every tenancy will now be a periodic one
- Landlords can only accept one month’s rent in advance
- You have the right to ask permission to have a pet – your landlord can only say no if they have a good reason.
It’s useful to stay up to date and to understand your rights. Please have a look at the Shelter website which explains the changes in greater depth.
We will continue to provide further information and if you’re concerned about how the changes may affect you please contact our Advice team on 020 3393 7011 or send an email to: advice@raid.charity
