With Phase One of the Renters' Rights Bill due to come into force on 1 May 2026, landlords now have less than four months to prepare for the first major set of changes to tenancy law.

What changes are coming in Phase One?

From May 2026, the following reforms will be introduced:

• Section 21 “no-fault” evictions will be banned

• Fixed-term assured tenancies will be replaced with periodic tenancies

• Limits will be placed on rent increases and rent paid in advance

• Bidding wars for rental properties will be prohibited

• Blanket bans on tenants receiving benefits or with children will be outlawed

• Tenants will gain stronger rights to request and keep pets

  
  

   How can you prepare as a landlord?                  

1. Review your current tenancies and wider portfolio
   Identify which tenancies may be most affected and where changes may be required.

2. Arrange property inspections
   Ensure your properties meet all safety and habitability standards, and address any potential hazards early.

3. Update internal processes
   Review how you handle tenant referencing, advertising, rent reviews, and how complaints or maintenance issues are logged and resolved.

4. Check your letting or managing agent is ready
   If you use an agent, confirm they understand the new legislation and have systems in place to comply from day one.

5. Familiarise yourself with the legislation
   The changes affect tenancy agreements, rent increases, rent in advance, and possession proceedings. Understanding these now will help avoid issues later.

To read our full blog covering all the changes in detail and what they mean for landlords, click here:   Renters’ Rights Bill - What you need to know?