Renters' Rights Act

The Renters’ Rights Act introduced new rules for private renting from 1 May 2026. The changes apply to both new and existing tenancies.

Contents

Private tenants

What the changes mean for private tenants

Since 1 May 2026, new rules have changed how private renting works.

These changes give tenants greater security, stronger rights, and clearer protections when renting a home.

You cannot be asked to leave without a reason

Since 1 May 2026, landlords can no longer use Section 21 "no fault" evictions.

Your landlord can only end your tenancy if they have a legal reason and follow the correct process.

You have greater security in your home and cannot be asked to leave without a clear and lawful reason.

You can stay in your home unless something changes

Most private tenancies are now "rolling" (periodic) tenancies. This means you can stay in your home unless you choose to leave or your landlord has a legal reason to end the tenancy.

You can leave your tenancy by giving the required notice.

You are not tied into a fixed term and can move when it suits you, while also having more stability if you want to stay.

Rent increases are clearer and fairer

Your landlord can increase your rent once every 12 months and must give at least 2 months' notice of a rent increase.

If you think the increase is too high, you can challenge it.

You have more time to plan and more confidence to question rent increases that do not reflect the local rental market.

You have stronger rights when renting

The new rules mean landlords cannot refuse you because you have children or receive benefits. They must consider requests to have a pet and cannot refuse without a good reason.

Landlords cannot ask for or accept offers above the advertised rent.

You should find it easier to find and keep a home without being treated unfairly.

Landlords can still take back their property

Landlords can still end a tenancy, but only in certain situations, such as:

• selling the property 
• moving into the property 
• rent arrears or anti-social behaviour

They must follow the legal process and give the correct notice.

You are more protected, but landlords can still act where there is a clear and lawful reason. 

Get help and advice

If you are worried about your tenancy or not sure what to do, email us at hsg-privatehousing@croydon.gov.uk.

We also work with landlords and letting agents to resolve issues early and help people stay in their homes where possible.

The council has new duties to enforce the law where landlords break the rules.