Changes to private renting (Renters’ Rights Act 2025)
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 introduces significant changes to the private rented sector in England.
The main tenancy reforms are expected to come into force from 1 May 2026, with further changes introduced in phases.
Key changes include:
End of Section 21 (‘no fault’ evictions)
Landlords can no longer evict tenants without a legal reason.
Possession must be sought using specific legal grounds (for example rent arrears, anti-social behaviour or sale of the property).
Periodic (rolling) tenancies
Most tenancies are now periodic.
This means:
- Tenancies do not have a fixed end date
- Tenants can leave with at least 2 months’ notice
- Landlords must use legal grounds to regain possession
Changes to rent increases
- Rent can normally only be increased once every 12 months
- The correct legal process must be followed
- Tenants can challenge increases they believe are excessive
Pets
Tenants can request permission to keep a pet.
Landlords must consider requests reasonably and should not refuse without good reason.
Further changes (phased introduction)
The following measures will be introduced later:
- A national Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database
- A mandatory Landlord Ombudsman
- Additional requirements on property standards (including Decent Homes Standard proposals)
Further guidance: Guide to the Renters Rights Act
Housing standards and legal requirements
Civil penalty notices
Since 6 April 2017, local housing authorities have powers to impose civil penalties of up to £30,000 as an alternative to prosecution for certain offences. [Housing st...ich.gov.uk]
Download the Civil Penalties Policy 2025.pdf
Banning orders
The Council may apply to the First-tier Tribunal to impose a banning order on a landlord or managing agent convicted of a banning order offence. [Housing st...ich.gov.uk]
Download the Banning Order Policy banning_order_policy_review_2021.pdf
Gas safety
All privately rented properties must have a valid annual gas safety certificate. [Housing st...ich.gov.uk]
Gas Safe Register: https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk
Electrical safety standards
Electrical installations must be:
- Inspected and tested at least every 5 years
- Checked by a qualified electrician
- Provided to tenants as evidence
Guidance: Electrical safety standards in the private and social rented sectors: guidance - GOV.UK
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Landlords must:
- Install at least one smoke alarm on every storey
- Install carbon monoxide alarms where required
- Repair or replace alarms when necessary
Local authorities can impose fines of up to £5,000 for non-compliance. [Housing st...ich.gov.uk]
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
Landlords of HMOs must meet additional requirements, including fire safety and property management standards. [Housing st...ich.gov.uk]
See Houses in Multiple Occupation guidance
Responsibilities under the Renters’ Rights Act
Landlords should:
- Review tenancy agreements and management practices
- Ensure compliance with all safety and housing standards
- Respond promptly to repair requests
- Prepare for new requirements such as registration and ombudsman membership
Failure to comply may result in:
- Civil penalties
- Prosecution
- Banning orders
- Rent repayment orders
Supporting tenants
The Private Sector Housing team provides support to tenants living in properties that do not meet required standards.
We provide:
- A Checklist of Hazards (PDF) based on HHSRS Microsoft Word - hazards.doc
- A Template Letter (PDF) https://www.ipswich.gov.uk/sites/ipswich/files/m-files/Tenant_template.pdf to help tenants report issues
Landlords are encouraged to respond promptly to tenant concerns to avoid enforcement action.
Further guidance and support
Contact Us - General Enquiry - My Ipswich.