The New Renters’ Rights Bill: What’s Changing in May 2026 — And What It Means for the Housing Market
The Labour Government has officially confirmed that the new Renters’ Rights Bill will come into effect in May 2026, marking the biggest shift in private rented sector regulation in a generation.
From 1 May 2026, landlords will no longer be able to issue no-fault Section 21 eviction notices. Housing Secretary Steve Reed has stated that this timeline gives landlords sufficient time to prepare and ensure their properties and practices are fully compliant before the deadline.
What’s Changing Under the Renters’ Rights Bill?
The Bill introduces a wide range of reforms designed to increase security, fairness, and transparency for tenants. Key changes include:
- All tenancy agreements will become rolling (periodic) contracts
Fixed-term ASTs will be phased out, giving renters more stability and flexibility.
- Tenants can end their tenancy with two months’ notice
This allows renters to move without being tied into long-term contracts.
- Landlords can only evict on defined legal grounds
Eviction will still be possible but must be based on clear, legitimate reasons.
- A ban on rental ‘bidding wars’
Landlords and agents will no longer be able to invite or encourage offers above the advertised rent.
- Pets can no longer be unreasonably refused
Tenants gain the right to request a pet, and landlords must have a valid reason for saying no.
- Rent increases will be limited to once per year
This prevents sudden or excessive rent hikes within short periods.
- Landlords will not be allowed to refuse tenants on benefits or families with children
Clear protections against discrimination aim to make the rental market fairer and more inclusive.
Concerns From Landlords
Despite the intended benefits for renters, many landlords have expressed concerns about the Bill. Some worry that tighter regulations and fewer routes to regain possession could make letting financially or practically unviable. This has led to fears of a potential ‘sell-off’ of rental homes, which could reduce available housing stock and place further pressure on an already strained market.
While these concerns are widely discussed, the Government maintains that the reforms will create a more balanced, stable, and transparent rental system that ultimately benefits both tenants and responsible landlords.
Although the Renters’ Rights Bill is now law, we can still help.
Implementation will take time, and many landlords and tenants will need support understanding how the new rules apply to their individual circumstances. We can help you review existing tenancy agreements, explain the new eviction grounds, advise on rent increases, and guide you through any concerns you may have as the sector transitions to the new system. No matter your situation, you don’t have to navigate these changes alone.
Disclaimer: housing law is complex and ever changing, whilst we do our very best to provide accurate blogs, we do ask that you do not rely on any of them in place of speaking to one of our team or taking your own legal advice on your particular circumstances.