The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 comes into force in England on 1 May. If you’ve left things late, don’t panic. Our five-point action plan will help bring you back on track.
1. Do you need Section 21?
If you need to use it, get your skates on now. Like today.
Section 21 so-called ‘no fault’ evictions can’t be issued after April.
Instead, you’ll need to use the Section 8 route and have specific statutory grounds for taking back your property.
2. Is your rent right?
Check that you’re charging the correct rent amount.
Adjust it ASAP if needed.
From May, you’ll only be able to increase the rent once a year and up to market levels. You’ll need to use the Section 13 procedure and give two months’ notice.
(We’ll be happy to advise you on current local rent levels by the way.)
3. Issue the official Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet
The Government has published an official information sheet, available here as a PDF. It tells tenants how the new law affects their tenancy.
This sheet must be issued to all existing tenants – including everyone named on the tenancy – by the end of April.
No ifs, no buts, it’s got to be done.
You can email the PDF or print it, post it, or hand-deliver it. Either way, keep some proof.
Tip. You don’t need to issue a new tenancy agreement to existing tenants. Existing Assured Shorthold Tenancies automatically convert to the new Assured Periodic Tenancies on 1 May.
But if you don’t have a written tenancy agreement, you should issue one now, and for all new tenancies in the future.
4. Check those important docs
Check that gas safety certificates, electrical safety reports (EICRs), and EPCs are up to date.
If your property requires a licence, check whether it’s still valid.
Make sure your tenant’s deposit is protected in an approved scheme.
While these aren’t a new requirement under Renters’ Rights – you must have them anyway – it will avoid any probs later.
5. Inspect your property
If anything needs attention – like slipped tiles or signs of damp after a long, wet, windy winter – get it sorted.
Again, this isn’t a new requirement under Renters’ Rights – it’s good practice anyway – but it will help get the new system off on the right foot.
Two things you DON’T need to do now
Renters’ Rights will bring in a Private Rented Sector Database and a Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman.
Landlords will need to join these schemes.
But they aren’t up and running just yet, so there’s nothing to do for now.
We know this is a really challenging time for landlords. But don’t worry, we’re your local independent letting experts, and we’re here to share the load wherever we can.
If you need our help with any aspect of letting or managing your property, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
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