Renters' Rights Act

The Renters’ Rights Act will introduce major changes to private renting in England. It will affect both private tenants and landlords.

The Act aims to:

• give tenants more security in their homes
• make the system clearer for tenants and landlords
• improve housing standards in the private rented sector

What's changing from 1 May 2026

From 1 May 2026:

• Section 21 “no fault” evictions will end 
• tenancies will move to a periodic system instead of a fixed length of tenancy
• rent increases will be limited to once per year 
• tenants will have stronger rights to challenge rent increases 
• new rules will apply on discrimination, pets and rental bidding

These changes will apply to most private tenancies.

Councils have new duties to enforce the law if landlords break the rules. 

If you rent privately

You will have more security in your home and more rights if your rent is increased.

What the changes mean for private tenants

If you are a landlord

You will need to follow the new tenancy system and updated rules. If you break the rules, you will face financial penalties or criminal prosecution.

What the changes mean for landlords 

What's coming next

The changes from 1 May 2026 are the first stage.

Further changes will follow, including:

• a national landlord and property database 
• a new landlord ombudsman 
• stronger rules on housing standards, including damp and mould 
• a Decent Homes Standard for private rented homes

Get help

If you need advice or support, you can contact hsg-privatehousing@croydon.gov.uk.