The Government is introducing big changes to private renting through the Renters’ Rights Act. The aim is to make private renting fairer, safer, and more secure. These changes will start in phases from 1 May 2026.
For more details, visit Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act - GOV.UK.
What changes
From 1 May 2026, the changes include:
- Abolition of section 21 evictions – you must give a legal grounds for possession to end a tenancy, for example, selling the property, moving in, rent arrears, antisocial behaviour
- Periodic tenancies under the Renters' Rights Act - fixed term assured shorthold tenancies will no longer exist
- for written tenancy agreements signed before 1 May 2026, you need to give tenants the Renters' Rights Act information sheet (PDF) by 31 May 2026 - more information is available on GOV.UK.
- Rules for rent increases - rent increases allowed once per year and you must give at least two months’ notice and use the proper legal process; you can't ask for more than one month upfront
- Rent bidding restrictions - bidding wars not allowed and you must stick to the advertised rent
- Rules on rental discrimination - you can't refuse tenants because they have children or receive benefits
- Tenants' rights to keep pets - pets must be considered, you can't refuse a tenant's request to keep a pet without valid reason
Later in 2026, the changes include:
- mandatory registration on the new national Private Rented Sector (PRS) Database
- membership of the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Ombudsman (binding decisions)
More information
- Enforcement measures for landlords under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 - GOV.UK
- Repossessing your privately rented property after 1 May 2026 - GOV.UK
- Tenant Fees Act amended by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 - GOV.UK
- Grounds for possession: guidance for landlords and letting agents - GOV.UK
- Get on top of the renting changes - GOV.UK
- 6 ways for landlords to get ready for the Renters’ Rights Act
- Download the Renters’ Rights Act: Tenant information sheet
How we can help
If you need advice about renting in Portsmouth, visit our landlord advice, workshops and support page to find workshops, advice, and one-to-one support.
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Contact us
If you have any questions, contact us on 023 9268 8369 or at PSH@portsmouthcc.gov.uk.