The private renting sector is set for the biggest changes in a generation with the introduction of the Renters Rights Act, which officially took effect on 27 October 2025.

The new Act will bring a significant number of new laws that will be phased in over the coming weeks and months, as well as updates to current regulations that private landlords will need to comply with.

It will also enhance and clarify the rights of tenants while also supporting landlords, so they are aware of what is expected of them moving forward but also can access support if needed.

It’s important you prepare by both understanding the laws in place and knowing your current financial position so you can manage any potential challenges.

What are the major changes the Renters’ Rights Act will bring for landlords?

One of the significant changes is the removal of no-fault evictions, meaning landlords will need to provide clear reasons for evicting tenants.

The new Act will see Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 removed, with landlords needing to follow the regulations set in Section 8, which outlines the reasons you can provide for evicting tenants and this must be followed moving forward.

Tenancy structures are also changing as fixed-term shorthold tenancies are being removed and replaced with periodic tenancies.

This means fixed dates will be removed and instead tenancies work on a periodic basis, running either from week to week or month to month, depending on when rent is paid.

Under the new tenancy structures, tenants will be allowed to decide when a tenancy agreement ends but they will be required to give you two months’ notice.

A significant financial impact is making bidding wars illegal. The Act clarifies that the rental price you advertise to potential tenants is what you must charge, you cannot accept higher offers.

In addition to this, rent increases can only be done once a year and must reflect the local market and tenants can challenge this if they feel the scale of the increase is unfair.

What else will change under the Renters’ Rights Act?

Other changes that will be phased over the coming weeks and months are increased measures for tenants have pets and the introduction of two new initiatives, a Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman and Private Rented Sector Database.

The Act clarifies that you will need to consider all pet requests and provide valid reasoning for why they cannot have pets in the property.

You will be able to access pet insurance for your property to protect against any damages or you can insist your tenant does this.

As part of the act, two new initiatives will be created. The first is a new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman, which will help find a resolution between you and your tenants should any disputes or complaints arise.

The other is a Private Rented Sector Database which will see you register information about you and your properties. It will also outline your legal and compliance obligations. It is about strengthening your own position as a landlord and ensuring you know your legal obligations.

The Act will also introduce existing laws operating in the social housing sector to the private housing sector which includes Awaab’s Law which will see you change how you manage, investigate and address hazardous risks in your property.

Understanding your finances can help you prepare

Alongside knowing all the regulations that will take effect over the coming weeks and months, the changes may impact you financially, particularly if you have to address any issues within your property.

Understanding your own financial position will help and our team can support with this. We can help you build a clear picture of your finances, analysing your incoming, expenses, ongoing costs and budget effectively so you can confidently manage any challenges the new Act could bring.

Our expert accountants will provide tailored advice and support to ensure you have a better understanding of your finances so you can make the best decisions to ensure you are following the new laws in place.

For expert financial advice and support, contact our team today.