The Renters’ Rights Act comes into force on 1 May 2026 and Horsham District Council is encouraging landlords to prepare now for the biggest change to the private rental sector in nearly 40 years.
The changes will give tenants greater stability and security. They will also break down barriers that can prevent some people and families from renting altogether.
The new reforms place new responsibilities on landlords and give local authorities greater powers to enforce the new legislation.
The key changes taking effect on 1 May 2026 include:
- The abolishment of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a specific, legally valid reason
- The banning of fixed term assured tenancies. Tenancies will roll over until either party chooses to end it. Renters will be able to end a tenancy at any point by giving two months’ notice. Landlords will be able to end a tenancy by using a specific, legally defined reason, known as a ‘possession ground’
- Tenants will benefit from a 12-month protected period at the beginning of a tenancy during which landlords will not be able to evict them
- It will be illegal for landlords to discriminate against prospective renters who have children or receive benefits, helping to ensure everyone is treated fairly when looking for a place to live
- Landlords will be prevented from asking for, encouraging, or accepting bids above the advertised rent price, which will put an end to rental bidding wars
- Landlords will be able to request a maximum of one month’s rent upfront
- Rent increases will be legally limited to once per year and tenants will be able to challenge rent increases at a tribunal if they feel rent hikes are above market prices
- Every tenant in a private rented property will have the right to request a pet, which the landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.
Horsham District Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for Environmental Health, Cllr Jay Mercer commented: “We welcome the new reforms as they give renters in private sector homes, more rights, stronger protections and more peace of mind.
“As a result of the new legislation we will be able to take more action to ensure that tenancies are lawful and renters are being protected and treated fairly. These reforms also mean that we can support landlords with anti-social tenants and lawful evictions.
With the new rules coming into effect soon, it’s essential that everyone familiarises themselves with the new guidance now to understand their rights and responsibilities .”
There are some 9,000 rented properties in the Horsham District.
To ensure a smooth transition and the avoidance of penalties, some of which start at £4,000, we strongly encourage all landlords to prepare themselves for the new legislation.