Renters Rights 2026: What Tenants Need to Know

Understanding Your Rights in 2026: What’s Changing

The Renters Rights Act builds on legislation passed in 2025, giving tenants stronger protections, clearer rights, and recourse against neglectful or unfair landlords. Here’s what every tenant should know.

 

Section 21 'No-Fault' Evictions Are Ending

Landlords can no longer evict tenants without reason. Evictions now require specific grounds, such as:

• Selling the property

• Moving in themselves or close family

• Serious rent arrears or antisocial behaviour

Why it matters: You gain greater tenancy security and protection from retaliatory eviction for requesting repairs or exercising your rights.

 

New Tenancy Structures

Fixed-term leases are transitioning to rolling periodic tenancies. This means:

• Rentals continue month-to-month

• Tenants gain flexibility to move without penalty

Why it matters: You’re no longer locked into long fixed terms, making it easier to adapt to life changes like work or family moves.

 

Decent Homes Standard Extends to Private Rentals

Private rentals must now meet minimum standards for:

• Heating and insulation

• Kitchens and bathrooms

• Structural repairs

Why it matters: Landlords must maintain properties properly, and local authorities can enforce improvements or apply penalties for non-compliance.

 

Rent Increase Protections

• Rent can only be increased once per year

• Landlords must follow proper procedures

• Tenants can challenge excessive increases via the First-tier Tribunal

Why it matters: Greater predictability and fairness for budgeting, with recourse if proposed increases exceed market norms.

 

Enhanced Property Maintenance Rights

Tenants can request repairs with clear legal backing:

• Landlords must respond within reasonable timeframes

• Retaliatory eviction for repair requests is prohibited

Why it matters: Ensures you can live safely and comfortably while holding landlords accountable.

 

Protection from Discrimination

• Landlords cannot refuse tenants solely for receiving benefits

• Families with children cannot be automatically excluded

Why it matters: Fairer access to housing for all tenants, removing common discriminatory barriers.

 

Deposit Protections Improve

• Faster return of deposits

• Landlords must justify deductions with evidence

• Dispute resolution processes are streamlined

Why it matters: Tenants receive their money promptly, with clear procedures for resolving disagreements.

 

Understanding Enforcement

• Familiarise yourself with local authority housing teams

• Keep written records of repair requests and landlord responses

• Seek advice from Citizens Advice or housing charities

Why it matters: Rights only protect tenants if enforced properly. Documenting issues ensures you can take action if landlords fail to comply.

 

What This Means for Tenants

The Renters Rights Act strengthens tenant protections across evictions, property conditions, rent, and deposits. Understanding and exercising these rights empowers tenants to live securely and confidently while holding landlords accountable.

Need guidance on exercising your tenant rights or addressing landlord issues? Contact us for expert advice and support.