Renters' Rights Act - Implementation Dates CONFIRMED!
The government have issued a road map for the implementation of the Renters' Rights Act, the act will be split into a few phases and the commencement dates have now been released.
The government has released its roadmap for the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 — a major shake-up of the private rented sector.
Matthew Pennycook explains; “This roadmap provides an overview of our implementation plans for the coming years. It includes detail on how we will phase our reforms and when they will come into force.
“The move to a new system of periodic tenancies is at the heart of the Act. Once switched on, it will mean the end of fixed-term tenancies and the long-overdue abolition of section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions.”
“In the first phase of reforms, we will implement the new tenancy regime. This will apply to both new and existing tenancies and will come into force on 1 May 2026".
We’ve broken it down simply so you can see what’s happening, when, and what it actually means for landlords, tenants and agents alike.
Phase 1 — From 1 May 2026
These are the biggest and most immediate changes.
🔚 Section 21 will be abolished.
🏡 New Periodic Tenancies (no more fixed term!)
💰 Rent increases once a year via Section 13 notice.
🚫 No More Rent Bidding
💵 No Rent in Advance (capped at one month)
🐾 Pets Allowed (Within Reason)
👨👩👧 No Discrimination (against benefits or children)
👮 Stronger Enforcement
📝 What Landlords Need to Do
By 31 May 2026:
- Provide an information sheet explaining the legal changes for all existing tenancies.
- For verbal agreements, supply a written summary of terms.
🗓 Phase 2 – From Late 2026
What goes live:
🗂️ National Landlord Database
All landlords must register (with an annual fee) and upload property-level details such as safety certificates.
🛠️ Mandatory Ombudsman Scheme
🗓 Phase 3 – Dates TBC (Post-2026)
What will be introduced:
🏘️ A New Decent Homes Standard
For the first time ever, this standard will apply to private rentals — ensuring homes are safe, warm and well-maintained.
The proposed implementation year is 2035 or 2037.
⚠️ Awaab’s Law for the PRS
As always Greater London Properties are here to help you and guide you through these changes.
If you’re not currently using our Fully Managed Service, now is the time to consider upgrading — it’s the best way to make sure your property and tenants are fully covered under the new law.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss how these changes may affect your property, or how to become a GLP client please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team — we’re always here to help.
Warm regards,
Megan Cutforth
Lettings Director
📧 megan@glp.co.uk
📞 0207 113 1066
🌐 www.glp.co.uk