The Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent on 27th October 2025 we now have been provided with a commencement date from the Government.

We understand that any significant legislative change can be daunting. As Ultralets clients, you don't need to worry, our team of dedicated experts take on the complexity out of the changes, so you don't have to. 

When is the Renters’ Rights Act's commencement date? 

We now have a date for Phase 1 of the RRA. May 1st 2026. This will be when the first few changes come into play. These include;

• End of Section 21 evictions and a move onto the new Section 8 grounds.
• End of fixed term tenancies and introduction of Assured Periodic Tenancies. Any Tenants with a tenancy made before 1st May 2026 will need to be provided with an ‘Information Sheet’ which is expected to be drawn up by the Government by March 2026.
• Revised Section 13 procedures with 2 months notice to Tenants on any increases.
• Tenants will have the right to request a pet. Landlords and Agents have 28 days to consider and provide a valid reason for accepting or declining. Guidance on this to follow in November 2026.
• Landlords and Agents can no longer accept rent up front or encourage rental bidding. 
• Agents and Landlords can not discriminate or block people who have children or who are on benefits from viewing or applying for a property. 

Phase 2 is due in late 2026 and will include;

• The Private Landlord Ombudsman will provide a redress scheme for PRS Tenants and Landlords similar to the current Property Ombudsman. This is expected to be fully operational by 2028. 
• A Private Rented Sector Database will be mandatory and an annual fee will be required. It’s not yet known what this fee will be. The Landlords contact details, property details and compliance certificates will all be logged on the database. 

Phase 3 is expected once Phase 1 and 2 are successfully implemented. Phase 3 includes;

• Extension of Awaab’s Law to the PRS. 
• Implement an improved Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). 
• Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
• The Decent Homes Standard introduced into the PRS ensuring properties meet a minimum standard of housing quality. The Government is proposing 2035 or 2037 for full implementation. 

How are Ultralets preparing for the changes? 

✅ Our entire team are undergoing RRA training 

✅ Systems are being meticulously reviewed and updated 

✅ Documents and notices are being amended 

✅ Procedures have been updated to be compliant ahead of time 

✅ Database & Ombudsman Management  

With our Full Management package, we are here to reassure you that your investment remains secure and compliant during any times of change. 

What’s next? 

Further guidance is expected from the Government in November 2025 and will allow Agents and Landlords time to prepare and make any tweaks they need to before May 1st 2026. We’ll of course keep you updated as and when.

As responsible Agents acting for responsible Landlords, and with Ultralets already practising many of these changes and we’re confident our clients won’t feel too much of a difference once May 1st comes around.

If you do have any questions on the RRA and any of the incoming changes, feel free to get in touch with our Lettings Manager, Jake on 01482 562 562 or via email jake.astill@ultralets.co.uk.