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With effect from 1st May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 introduced some of the most significant changes to the private rented sector in a generation. It is essential that landlords have a clear understanding of the new legislation, how it will impact their investment properties, and the updated procedures required to ensure compliance is maintained.

Whilst the changes may initially appear challenging, with the right support and guidance from industry specialists, it also presents an opportunity to improve asset performance.

Since the proposed changes were first announced, we have been monitoring developments closely to ensure we are fully prepared.

Periodic tenancies

The move from Assured Shorthold Tenancies (fixed term agreements) to Assured Periodic Tenancies (rolling monthly agreements) has understandably prompted concerns, particularly relating to the potential for increased tenant turnover.

To limit this risk, we carry out a thorough tenant registration process from the outset. This allows us to obtain a clear understanding of each tenant’s long-term intentions.

While we have historically issued 12-month fixed-term agreements, our average tenancy length across our managed portfolio exceeds 36 months. This is due to a high proportion of our tenants choosing to renew at the end of the initial term. Therefore, we anticipate that the transition to Assured Periodic Tenancies will have minimum impact on our managed portfolio.

Possession grounds

With revised grounds for possession and the abolishment of Section 21 Notices, landlords are understandably keen to understand the procedure should possession be required.

As part of our managed service, all tenancy-related documentation is recorded to ensure that any necessary paperwork is readily available. When applying for possession, it is essential to demonstrate that compliance has been followed.

We also work closely with local solicitors to ensure not only that we adhere to the latest legal framework but that our clients have access to specialist legal support should possession need to be obtained under specific grounds.

For additional peace of mind, from the start of each tenancy, Robinson & Hall offers an optional Rent and Legal Protection policy to all landlords within our managed service.

Compliance

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces total transparency relating to tenancy documentation.

Local authorities have been granted greater enforcement powers including rights to enter businesses to seize documentation and issue fines for non-compliance.

We have undertaken a review of our systems, procedures, and documentation to ensure full alignment with the new legal requirements to protect our clients. We have also issued the required information sheets to all tenants in our portfolio to ensure government guidelines have been followed well in advance of the deadline.

Our priority remains to protect our clients by maintaining compliance during this period of legislative change so they do not need to monitor every development themselves.

Property standards

Increased focus on property conditions and tenant satisfaction will mean maintenance of the property is more important than ever.

Carrying out regular property inspections and providing the client with a comprehensive report with photographs and annotations ensures clients are fully informed of the condition of their investment property. This is also an opportunity to engage with the tenant to address any potential concerns directly and identify maintenance issues to promote a longer-term tenancy. Please also see our article on ‘Keeping your rental property well maintained: what landlords should know’ written by David Cook, Senior Building Surveyor, here.

Tenant communication

As part of our management service, we act as the direct point of contact for tenants, providing clear guidance to ensure information is received and understood, helping to minimise confusion or potential disputes.

Preparing for the changes

We have taken a proactive approach to the legislation changes by preparing well in advance to ensure all
upcoming government guidelines are followed and to support a smooth transition with minimum disruption.

For further information, or to book a free, no-obligationlettings appraisal of your property, please contact me.