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.
