RRA update

The landscape of the UK rental market is changing. On 27th October 2025, the Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent, signaling the most significant shift in private renting in decades. With the implementation date set for 1st May 2026, many landlords are feeling a mix of confusion and concern.

At Property Vine, our mission is to provide clarity and peace of mind. While the rules are changing, our commitment to protecting your investment remains the same. Here is everything you need to know to prepare for the transition. 

 

The biggest structural change is the move to a single system of periodic tenancies.

•  The Change: All new and existing tenancies will have no fixed end date. Tenants can end a tenancy at any time by giving two months' notice.
•  The Impact: This provides tenants with more flexibility, but landlords must ensure their properties are well-managed to retain high-quality residents.

Often referred to as "no-fault" evictions, Section 21 will be abolished on 1st May 2026.

• What replaces it? Landlords will now need a specific legal reason (ground) to regain possession.
•  Selling or Moving In: New mandatory grounds will allow you to regain possession if you wish to sell the property or move yourself or a close family member in. These grounds generally require a 4-month notice period.
• Arrears: The mandatory ground for rent arrears will increase from two months to three months of debt.

The Act aims to make rent increases more transparent and fair.

•  Annual Reviews: Rents can only be increased once per year to the "market rate" using the Section 13 procedure.
• No Bidding: "Rental bidding wars" are now prohibited. Landlords and agents cannot invite or accept offers above the advertised asking price.
• Advance Rent: Landlords are now limited to requesting a maximum of one month’s rent in advance.

The government is raising the bar for property conditions.

•  Decent Homes Standard: For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard will apply to the private sector.
• Awaab’s Law: Landlords must adhere to strict, legally enforceable timeframes to address serious hazards like damp and mold.
• Property Vine Tip: We recommend a proactive maintenance check now to ensure your property meets these upcoming requirements.

To improve accountability, two new digital requirements are being introduced:

• PRS Ombudsman: All private landlords must join a new redress scheme to resolve disputes without going to court.
• PRS Database: A mandatory digital portal where all landlords and properties must be registered. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to £40,000.

The Act grants tenants a legal right to request a pet. While you cannot "unreasonably refuse," you can protect your investment by requiring the tenant to take out pet insurance to cover potential accidental damage.

 

It is now illegal to have blanket bans on renting to families with children or those receiving professional benefits. Every applicant must be considered on their individual merits.

Important Dates to Remember

• 27th December 2025: Local councils gain extended investigatory powers.
• 1st May 2026: Main implementation date (Section 21 ends, periodic tenancies begin).
• Late 2026: Expected rollout of the Ombudsman and Database.

Navigating these changes doesn't have to be stressful. Our specialist property management team is already fully trained on the Renters’ Rights Act. From managing Section 13 notices to ensuring your property meets the Decent Homes Standard, we handle the hard work so you don’t have to.

Is your property ready for May 2026? Get in touch with us today for a compliance health check.

• Visit: www.propertyvine.co.uk
• Call: 020 3764 2639
• Email: info@propertyvine.co.uk
• Office: Gorseway, Romford, RM7 0RR