What You Need to Know About the New Tenancy Law Changes in the UK (2025/2026)
The private rental sector in England is about to go through some of its biggest reforms in decades. If you rent out property or are worried about your rights as a tenant, here’s a simple guide to what’s changing, when it’s likely to happen, and what you should do.
🔍 Key Changes in the Renters’ Rights Bill / Reformed Tenancy Laws
Here are some of the big updates:
Abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without giving a reason under Section 21. Instead, they must use Section 8 or other legal grounds.Fixed-term tenancies will become periodic
That means tenancies that currently have, say, a 12-month term will convert to rolling/month-by-month tenancies once the changes take effect.Stricter rules on rent increases
Rent increases will be more controlled — landlords must follow proper notice procedures, and rent hikes will likely be limited in frequency. Arbitrary or frequent hikes will be harder.Ban on excessive upfront charges
Landlords will be restricted in how much they can demand before a tenancy begins. In many cases, just one month’s rent and a deposit will be allowed; large upfront payments beyond that may be outlawed.Better protection and clearer rights for tenants
Tenants will have more security and better standards in their rental homes. This includes tougher obligations on landlords for property conditions, possibly new dispute resolution routes (like ombudsman services) and better clarity on rights when landlords don’t follow rules.
📅 When Will This Happen?
The Bill (called the Renters’ Rights Bill or similar names) is progressing through Parliament.
Expected to receive Royal Assent (official approval) in autumn 2025.
Full implementation of most changes likely in early 2026.
⚠️ What This Means for You
If you’re a tenant, you’ll have more rights: fewer unexpected evictions, clearer rules for rent increases, and less upfront cost burden.
If you’re a landlord, you’ll need to prepare:
• Update tenancy agreements to reflect periodic terms.
• Ensure you have valid grounds allowed under law for evictions.
• Avoid demanding too much upfront rent.
• Keep records of repairs and property condition — stronger legal obligations will come.
✅ How This Connects with Raven Legal Assistance
With all these changes, you might find yourself thinking: “What do I do now?” That’s where tools and templates come in handy.
Ready-made tenancy letters (coming soon!) can help you send notices, communicate with landlords/tenants, or request deposit returns clearly.
If you need a letter tailored to your exact situation, you can use the tailored drafting service.
And if you have questions about your specific tenancy situation, booking an Hourly Advice Consultation gives you legal guidance without full representation.
💬 Final Thoughts
These reforms are meant to make renting fairer and more secure — but change always means people need to adapt. If you’re renting, being prepared helps. If you’re a landlord, now’s the time to review your paperwork, practices, and maybe communication style.
Understanding Divorce and Parenting Agreements in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide
Going through a divorce or separation can feel overwhelming, but having a clear understanding of the process can make things much easier. Many people are unsure where to start, how to handle parenting arrangements, and what role the court plays in financial matters. This guide sets out the key steps.
1. Starting the Divorce Application
The first step is filing a divorce application with the family court. This can usually be done online. The court fee for a divorce is currently £612. Alongside the application, you will need to provide your marriage certificate and some basic details.
2. Parenting Agreements
For parents, it is important to agree where children will live, how time will be shared, and who will make decisions about schooling, health, and other matters. A written parenting agreement can help reduce conflict and provide stability for children. While not legally binding on its own, it demonstrates cooperation and can be referred to if disagreements arise.
3. Consent Orders
If both parties agree on financial matters — such as property, pensions, or ongoing maintenance — these arrangements can be made legally binding through a consent order. The order is submitted to the court for approval by a judge, usually without a hearing. This ensures clarity and prevents either party from making future claims.
4. Why Preparation Matters
Good preparation at the start makes the process smoother and less stressful. Gathering financial documents, thinking carefully about practical arrangements for children, and recording any agreements can save time and help the court (if involved) understand your situation more clearly.
Final Thoughts
Divorce and separation are challenging, but they don’t have to be confusing. With the right steps in place, you can reach fair and workable arrangements for both finances and children. Taking the time to plan ahead can make the process easier for everyone involved.
Bailiffs at the door: 15 things you must not do (UK)
When an enforcement agent (“bailiff”) visits, what you don’t do matters as much as what you do. Stay calm, keep the door closed, and read this list so you don’t accidentally make things worse.
England & Wales. General information—not legal advice. If you’re unsure, get help fast.
1) Don’t open the door
Most bailiffs can only enter by peaceful entry (an unlocked/open door or being invited in). Talk through the closed door or from an upstairs window. Keep doors and easily-opened windows locked.
2) Don’t let them in “just to talk” (or to use the toilet/phone)
If they cross the threshold once, they may list (“take control of”) goods inside. Keep conversations on the doorstep with the door closed.
3) Don’t sign anything on the doorstep under pressure
A “quick signature” is often a Controlled Goods Agreement (CGA). If you can’t keep the payments, missing one can lead to removal of goods. Read it properly first or ask for it by email.
4) Don’t make payment promises you can’t keep
Agreeing to unaffordable instalments will backfire. Offer realistic, budget-based payments only—after you’ve checked your finances.
5) Don’t ignore ID and paperwork
Ask them to show ID and their certificate number, and to confirm what debt, which court order/warrant, and which creditor. Take notes (time, names, reference numbers). Photograph documents through the glass if needed.
6) Don’t assume they can break in
For most debts (council tax, parking, consumer credit with a CCJ), they can’t force entry on a first visit. Some exceptions exist (e.g., criminal fines, HMRC) and usually require specific authority. If they claim this power, ask for it in writing.
7) Don’t leave doors or windows open
They can enter through any unlocked entry point. Keep everything shut and locked until they leave.
8) Don’t hand over car keys (and don’t park on your drive)
Vehicles are common targets. If a visit is likely, park your car away from your home (not on your drive or directly outside).
Do not move or interfere with a vehicle that’s already clamped or listed on a CGA.
9) Don’t let them take essential household items
Bailiffs can’t take basic domestic necessities (e.g., fridge, cooker, beds, kids’ items). They also shouldn’t take tools of the trade you reasonably need for work (up to a statutory limit), or Blue Badge/ Motability vehicles. Challenge politely if they try.
10) Don’t lie, but don’t overshare
Keep it factual: confirm your name and address; don’t volunteer extra personal information or admit liability on the doorstep.
11) Don’t get physical or aggressive
Obstruction can create separate problems. Stay calm, keep the door closed, and record details.
12) Don’t deal by phone if you’re flustered
Ask for everything in writing (email is fine). Written trails protect you and reduce pressure tactics.
13) Don’t ignore the earlier letters
A bailiff visit usually follows a Notice of Enforcement. If you missed it, ask the company to email copies of all notices and the balance breakdown.
14) Don’t assume you have no options if you’re vulnerable
If you’re ill, disabled, recently bereaved, pregnant, a single parent with young children, or have mental-health issues, tell them (in writing) and ask for a hold while you get debt advice. Ask for their vulnerability policy.
15) Don’t wait—act the same day
Email the bailiff firm to request:
a hold on enforcement while you seek advice,
a full breakdown of fees and balance, and
all copies of notices/warrants.
Then speak to a debt adviser or legal support.
What to do instead (quick checklist)
Keep the door closed; speak politely through it.
Ask for ID, reference numbers, and documents.
Take notes/photos.
If you can pay something, make a realistic offer in writing.
If you’re vulnerable, say so in writing and ask for a hold.
Move your car away from home (unless clamped/CGA).
Get help quickly.
Need a letter?
If your case hasn’t reached enforcement (no court order yet), start with a simple “prove-it” letter to make collectors show evidence before you engage. If you’re already at bailiff stage, we can draft a short hold & vulnerability request email for you the same day. Call 0800 949 9401 or email jw@ravenlegal.co.uk.
Raven Legal Assistance provides self-help legal documents and fixed-fee paralegal support for England & Wales. We’re not a regulated law firm. If your case is urgent or complex, we can introduce a solicitor/barrister.