New reforms take effect for private rented tenancies

From 1st May 2026, new national rules have come into force that change how tenancies work within the private rented sector (PRS), setting clear expectations for landlords and giving greater security for residents.

Under the changes, which local authorities including Stockport Council will be responsible to enforces, tenants will be protected from ‘no fault’ section 21 evictions, and landlords will need to register with a new ombudsman and ensure properties meet the new Decent Homes Standard.

In an update, Stockport Council has confirmed that it is “committed to supporting the many responsible landlords in the borough to understand and meet the new requirements, while taking action where rules are not being followed.” To enforce the new rules, councils will be able to issue fines of up to £7,000 to landlords for non-compliance, rising to £40,000 for serious breaches and repeat offenders.

Updated rules include:

• End of section 21 “no fault” evictions. Landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without giving a valid reason. Tenancies can be ended only due to rental arrears, anti-social behaviour, or in order for the landlord to sell or move into the property, in which case a four-month notice period must be served. Where tenants refuse to leave, landlords must apply to the court for evictions.
• End to fixed term tenancies. All existing fixed-term tenancies must be changed to rolling agreements, with tenants able to choose to leave at any time by giving two months’ notice.
• Rent increases can only be permitted once per year, and must reflect local market rates. Increases cannot be backdated, and tenants can challenge excessive increases.
• Ban on rental bidding. Landlords and agents no longer be able to ask for or accept offers above the advertised rent when marketing properties to new tenants. No more than one month’s rent can be paid in advance
• New property standards. Homes offered for rent must meet the new Decent Homes Standard. By 2030, all private rented homes must have an EPC rating of C or above.
• End to discrimination based on whether tenants have children, or are in receipt of benefits.
• New rules for pets. Tenants have the right to request a pet, which landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. Landlords can stipulate tenants have adequate insurance to cover against any damage an animal may cause.
• New landlord ombudsman and database. All landlords must sign up to the scheme, which will give tenants access to a clear process for making complaints against a landlord and secure impartial and binding resolutions when necessary.

With new rules now in effect, landlords have until May 31st to share with all tenants named on the tenancy agreement with a government-produced factsheet as either a hard-copy or downloadable PDF file. Tenants without a written agreement will instead need a written statement setting out the key terms of their tenancy and other information set out by government here. Failure to comply will risk a fine of up £7,000.