Renters’ Rights Act: What Tenants Need To Know Right Now

The Renters’ Rights Act has changed the way private renting works in England. For tenants, the aim is to provide more security, clearer rights and better protection when renting a home. The main changes came into effect on 1st May 2026.

That does not mean a tenancy can never be ended, but it does mean landlords must now follow a clearer legal process and give a valid reason if they want a tenant to leave.

Here are five of the most common questions tenants are asking right now 👇

1. Has Section 21 really ended? 🚫

Yes. Landlords can no longer use the Section 21 “no fault” process for existing or new tenancies from 1st May 2026. This means your landlord now needs a valid legal reason if they want to end your tenancy.

✅ Solution:
If you receive a notice, do not ignore it, but do not panic either. Check what type of notice it is, what reason has been given and what date it asks you to leave. If you are unsure, ask your letting agent, local council or a housing advice organisation for guidance.

2. What happens to my current tenancy agreement? 📄

Most existing assured shorthold tenancies automatically became assured periodic tenancies on 1st May 2026. This means your tenancy now runs on a rolling basis, such as weekly or monthly, and any fixed end date no longer applies in the same way.

✅ Solution:
Keep a copy of your tenancy agreement, but remember that some parts may now be overridden by the new rules. You do not need to sign a new agreement for this change to take effect.

3. Should my landlord give me a new agreement? ✍️

If you already have a written tenancy agreement, your landlord does not usually need to give you a new one. Instead, they should have provided you with the Government’s Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet by 31st May 2026.

✅ Solution:
Check that you have received the Information Sheet as a PDF or printed copy. If you have not received it, politely ask your landlord or letting agent to send it to you.

4. Can my landlord still ask me to leave? 🏠

Yes, but they now need a valid legal reason. Examples include rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, the landlord needing to sell, or the landlord needing to move into the property. Landlords must use the correct forms and give the correct notice period.

✅ Solution:
Ask for everything in writing and check the reason carefully. If you think the notice is wrong, or you do not understand it, get advice before making any decisions about moving out.

5. Can my landlord sell the property or move back in? 🔑

Yes, but not immediately in every case. If your landlord wants to sell or move into the property, they cannot normally evict you for that reason within the first 12 months of your tenancy. After that, they usually need to give 4 months’ notice.

✅ Solution:
If your landlord tells you they are selling or moving back in, ask them to confirm this in writing. This gives you time to plan properly, understand your position and check that the correct process is being followed.

Final thoughts for tenants 💬

The Renters’ Rights Act gives tenants more protection and security, but it is still important to understand your responsibilities too. Keep your paperwork safe, communicate in writing where possible and ask for advice if you are unsure about anything. A good tenancy works best when both landlord and tenant understand the rules and communicate clearly ✅