Preparing for the Renters’ Rights Act - It’s Team-Work
Just a note the day after the day when Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act came into force- a thank you to a wonderful team who work tirelessly to support our clients and me - Lauren Green, Natasha Eddy and Pixels and Puzzles; our most phenomenal Chair Tweedie Brown ;
David Smith for providing incredible high level detailed and practical insight to the Act which I am sure will continue to evolve and gives us all something to think about for the next - well many years;
Jason Charles and Hannah Wainwright of Rightmove, David Hackett of DPS, Tracey Hanbury, Steve Hanbury and Kate Faulkner OBE of the National Landlords’ Investment Show, you provide access to a wide range of experts in one space that would otherwise be extremely difficult to find.
Paul Shamplina your travels across the country have reached so many landlords and agents - put your feet up.
Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 Changes Everything
With only one week to go before Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 comes into play effect, the government has published the commencement order which brings into force certain provisions of the legislation. From 1st May 2026, the core reforms apply to the private rented sector:-
All tenancies under the Housing Act 1988 become assured periodic tenancies
Fixed-term ASTs are abolished
Section 21 (‘no-fault’) evictions are removed
For now these changes will not apply to social housing.
Alongside the structural tenancy changes, several important provisions take effect:
Transitional Rules — Where the Real Complexity Lies
The Regulations are not just about new law—they are about how old and new systems interact.
Mitigating Risk in a Post-RRA Environment
The abolition of rent in advance is arguably one of the most challenging aspects of the Renters’ Rights Act for lettings professionals. Money in the bank provided clarity and confidence regardless of whether a tenant’s ability to pay became a problem later, and this surety enabled agents to work efficiently and smoothly, keeping business moving at pace. How can we as an industry replicate this certainty of income for our landlord clients as we move forwards, while remaining compliant with the new rules?
The role of the Rent Guarantor
An empty property means no rent payment but at the same time, agents cannot afford to compromise on risk. Striking the right balance becomes ever harder when applicants fall outside standard referencing criteria, even when they are otherwise suitable.
Government Housing Hub provides Guidance on PRS Reform
Reforms to the private rented sector in England are introducing a comprehensive framework of new rights and obligations for landlords, letting agents and tenants. These changes represent a significant shift in how residential tenancies are created, managed and brought to an end.
Landlords are central to the implementation of these changes, therefore, a thorough understanding of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is essential to ensure legal compliance, minimise risk, and maintain professional standards across all aspects of property management.