2025 Rights Guide
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 represents the biggest change to housing law in a generation. At Tenant Assist UK, we believe that clarity is the best way to avoid disputes.
Below is our plain-English guide to how the law changed on 1 May 2026.
Your Tenancy is Now Periodic
Most fixed-term tenancies have now converted into rolling monthly agreements.
- The Reality: You aren’t “locked in” for years, but you aren’t being kicked out either. Your tenancy simply continues until you give notice or a legal ground for possession is met.
- Wai’s Note: You do not need to sign a new contract for this to happen; it is automatic by law.
The End of "No-Fault" Evictions
Section 21 has been abolished. A landlord can no longer ask you to leave without providing a specific reason.
- The Grounds: To regain possession, a landlord must now prove a “Section 8” ground, such as:
- The landlord or a close family member moving in.
- The landlord selling the property.
- Significant rent arrears or breach of tenancy.
Rent Increases & Challenges
Rent hikes are now strictly limited to once every 12 months.
- The Process: Landlords must use a formal notice. If the proposed increase is higher than the local market rate, you have the right to challenge it at a Tribunal.
- Our Service: This is where our Rent Audit comes in. We check if the increase is valid and manage the Tribunal filing to secure a legal rent freeze while the case is reviewed.
Pets in the Home
You now have a legal right to request a pet.
- The Rule: Landlords cannot “unreasonably refuse. They may be able to refuse if a superior landlord i.e., freeholder does not allow pets.
Your Responsibilities
The law has changed, but the contract hasn’t. To stay protected under the new Act, you must:
- Pay rent on time (this remains the number 1 ground for eviction).
- Report repairs immediately.
- Allow access for safety checks (Gas/Electric).
