SHDC is urging landlords to take action as the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force

Landlords, letting agents and tenants are being urged to make sure they’re ready for major changes in the private rented sector as the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect.

The Act is bringing in new rights and responsibilities designed to create more security and fairness for tenants, while setting out clear expectations for landlords.

A key change is that landlords now need a legal reason to evict with a new Section 8 notice. This replaces the “no fault” Section 21 notice. Other changes include new measures to stop rental bidding and rental discrimination, and limits on the amount of rent in advance that landlords can request.

The reforms are the most significant change to the private rented sector in England in almost 40 years and are intended to target so-called ‘rogue’ landlords. This new legislation should not cause undue concern to most landlords in the district, and will give clarity on what is expected of them. 

However, there are certain steps that landlords need to take to make sure they’re compliant. Our Housing Advice team is keen to support landlords to ensure they are fully compliant and abreast of these changes.

Examples include:

• If your current tenancy started before 1 May 2026 and has an existing written tenancy agreement, you need to give your tenants a copy of the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet. You’ve got until 31 May 2026 to provide this to all your tenants, either digitally or on paper, or risk receiving a fine.
• If your current tenancy started before 1 May 2026 and is based entirely on a verbal agreement, you need to give your tenants a written record of the specific terms of the agreement. You need to do this on or before 31 May 2026 instead of providing the Information Sheet. Click here to access the Government guidance on the information you need to provide.
• If you have a tenancy that starts on or after 1 May 2026, you need to provide your tenants with certain information about the tenancy in writing. You could do this in a written tenancy agreement. Click here to access the Government guidance on the information you need to provide.
• Use the Government’s new tenancy forms – if you need them.
• Update your rent increase processes so they’re compliant with the new rules.

Cllr Denise O’Callaghan, Lead Member for Housing, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act marks a real step forward for people across the South Hams. Too many residents have faced uncertainty in recent years, and this legislation gives them the stability and fairness they deserve.

“It also offers much needed clarity for landlords on what is expected of them. We’re committed to making sure the Act is implemented in a way that strengthens our communities and supports both tenants and responsible landlords.”

Landlords and tenants alike can find out more at: housinghub.campaign.gov.uk/renting-is-changing