The landscape of private renting in the UK is continually evolving, and the upcoming Renters' Rights Act represents one of the most substantial shifts in recent memory. Designed to enhance security and fairness for tenants, these changes will undoubtedly impact how landlords operate. At Moreland, we believe in proactive communication and ensuring our landlords are fully informed and prepared, treating every client like family.

Key Changes Introduced by the Renters' Rights Act - from 01/05/2026

While the full details are still being finalised, several key proposals are expected to form the core of the new legislation:

1. Abolition of 'No-Fault' Evictions (Section 21)

Perhaps the most significant change, the Act aims to abolish Section 21 evictions, which currently allow landlords to regain possession without providing a reason. This means landlords will need to rely on Section 8 grounds for possession, which require a specific, legally defined reason such as rent arrears, breach of tenancy agreement, or the landlord needing to sell the property or move into it themselves. This shift places a greater emphasis on clear communication and robust tenancy agreements from the outset.

2. Strengthening Section 8 Grounds for Possession

To balance the removal of Section 21, the Act is expected to strengthen and expand the grounds under Section 8. This will provide landlords with clearer and more efficient routes to regain possession of their property when legitimate reasons arise. It's vital for landlords to understand these updated grounds and the evidence required to support them.

3. Introduction of a Decent Homes Standard for the Private Rented Sector

Currently applicable to social housing, the Decent Homes Standard is set to be extended to the private rental sector. This will mandate that rental properties meet specific standards for safety, repair, and facilities, ensuring tenants live in safe and habitable conditions. Landlords will need to ensure their properties comply with these new requirements, which may involve undertaking necessary maintenance or upgrades.

4. Greater Protection Against Rent Increases

The Act is likely to introduce measures to prevent excessive or unfair rent increases. While landlords will still be able to increase rent, the process may become more regulated, potentially requiring clearer justification and providing tenants with stronger avenues to challenge increases they deem unreasonable.

5. Allowing Tenants to Request to Keep Pets

Tenants will gain the right to request to have a pet in their property, which landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. Landlords will be able to require pet insurance to cover potential damages. This change encourages a more flexible approach to pet ownership in rental properties.

6. A New Private Rented Sector Ombudsman

A new ombudsman service is expected to be established, providing a mandatory, independent body for resolving disputes between landlords and tenants outside of the court system. This aims to offer a quicker and less costly resolution process for both parties.

Navigating the New Landscape: The Risks of Self-Management

These changes, while designed to improve tenant security, introduce new complexities and significant risks for landlords, particularly those who self-manage. Ensuring full compliance with the Renters' Rights Act will be paramount to avoid potential penalties and maintain positive tenant relationships.

Consider the following risks if you choose to self-manage:

• Legal Non-Compliance and Fines: Misinterpreting or failing to adhere to the new Section 8 grounds for possession could lead to lengthy and costly legal battles, potentially resulting in significant fines and an inability to regain possession of your property.
• Decent Homes Standard Breaches: Failure to meet the new Decent Homes Standard could result in enforcement action, including improvement notices, emergency works, and substantial financial penalties.
• Incorrect Rent Increases: Implementing rent increases incorrectly or without proper justification could lead to challenges from tenants, disputes, and orders to repay overpaid rent.
• Pet Request Disputes: Unreasonably refusing a pet request could lead to disputes and potential legal action, adding stress and expense.
• Ombudsman Service Navigation: Without expert guidance, navigating the new ombudsman service for dispute resolution can be complex and time-consuming, potentially leading to unfavourable outcomes.

These risks highlight why professional property management from Moreland is not just a convenience, but an essential service for compliance and peace of mind in this evolving regulatory environment.

Your Trusted Partner: Moreland's Commitment to You

At Moreland, we have been operating since 1988, building a reputation for professionalism and deep local market knowledge. Our commitment to you means we stay abreast of all legislative changes, providing clear and honest communication to our landlords. We pride ourselves on a service tailored to you, ensuring your best interests always come first.

Our experienced team can help you:

• Understand and implement the new Section 8 grounds: We will guide you through the revised eviction process, ensuring all legal requirements are met, minimising your risk of non-compliance.
• Ensure Decent Homes Standard compliance: We can advise on necessary property improvements and manage maintenance to meet the new standards, protecting you from potential fines.
• Manage tenancy agreements: We will update agreements to reflect the new legislation, including pet clauses and rent review procedures, ensuring they are legally sound.
• Handle disputes: Our proactive communication and expertise can help prevent disputes and navigate the new ombudsman service if required, saving you time and stress.

We believe in working harder for you, offering personalised attention that goes beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Let us take the stress out of managing your property, ensuring your continued success and peace of mind.

Contact Your Local Experts Today

Don't navigate these significant changes alone. Contact your local experts at Moreland for more advice on how the Renters' Rights Act will impact you and how our dedicated property management services can ensure your continued success and peace of mind. For those considering letting their property, complete an instant valuation at https://valuation.moreland.uk.com/home/3124.

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