The document summarizes the key changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, effective from 1 May 2026, affecting private tenants with assured or assured shorthold tenancies.

Tenancy Structure and Duration

• All fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will convert automatically into rolling periodic tenancies, usually monthly, with no fixed end date, unless terminated by tenant or landlord. The previous fixed term and end date no longer apply.
• Assured shorthold tenancies are abolished; existing agreements will become assured periodic tenancies, without ending the tenancy.

Rent and Rent Increases

• Rent review clauses in existing agreements cannot be used after 1 May 2026; landlords must follow the process under section 13 of the Housing Act 1988, including giving at least 2 months’ written notice via Form 4A, with rent increases limited to the open market rate. Challenges can be made at the First-tier Tribunal.

Eviction and Possession

• No more section 21 notices; landlords need valid grounds for possession, such as rent arrears, antisocial behavior, or property neglect. Certain grounds, like sale or landlord’s move-in, are protected for the first 12 months.
• Landlords must serve a section 8 notice specifying grounds and notice period; court proceedings require evidence, and tenants can contest eviction. Tenants can end their tenancy with at least 2 months’ written notice.

Other Rights

• Tenants can request to keep pets, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse; refusals must be justified in writing and can be challenged in court.
• Full-time student tenants may be evicted at the end of the academic year using specific grounds, with prior written notice required.

Additional Notes

• The new rules apply automatically, regardless of tenancy agreement updates, and do not affect social housing or lodgers. Landlords cannot override these rights through tenancy agreements. For more detailed guidance, legal advice, and forms, tenants are directed to GOV.UK resources.