TENANCY REFORM MEASURES TO TAKE EFFECT ON 1 MAY 2026

Phase 1 – From 1 May 2026

This first phase introduces the core tenancy reforms, including:

• Periodic tenancies

• Abolition of Section 21

• Cap on rent in advance

• Anti-discrimination measures

• Ban on rental bidding

• Annual rent increases via Section 13

• Tenant’s right to request a pet

Phase 2 – Late 2026

• Introduction of the Landlord Ombudsman

• Rollout of the new PRS Database

Phase 3 – Date TBC (consultation expected 2035 or 2037)

• Implementation of the Decent Homes Standard

• Implementation of Awaab’s Law

How These Reforms Affect Existing and Future Tenancies

Automatic Conversion of Tenancies

From 1 May 2026, the new tenancy system will apply to all private rented homes. Existing tenancies will automatically convert to the new system, while all agreements signed after this date must comply with the updated legal requirements.

Section 21 Notices

Any Section 21 notice served before 1 May 2026 remains valid for up to six months or until the tenant leaves. After that date, Section 21 will cease to be available as the new system becomes fully operational.

Written Statements and Tenancy Documents

All new tenancies must include a written agreement containing prescribed information set out by the Government.

Existing written tenancy agreements do not need to be replaced. Instead, landlords will need to provide tenants with a Government-issued information sheet summarising how the reforms affect their existing tenancy. Further details are expected closer to implementation.

Where no written agreement currently exists—such as verbal agreements or protected tenancies—landlords must provide a written document that includes all required information.