The Renters' Rights Act - Six Months On

Six months after Phase 1 of the Renters' Rights Act 2025 came into force on 1st May 2026, the private rented sector in England is operating under a different legal framework. Section 21 has gone, every assured shorthold tenancy has become an assured periodic tenancy and Section 8 Notice (Form 3A) is the only legal route to possession.

The picture six months on is mixed. Landlords and letting agents who prepared well have found the new rules workable and in some respects clearer. Others have been caught out by procedural changes, tribunal challenges and confusion over the notice period when tenants serve notice.