Landlords will no longer have the ability to issue Section 21 eviction notices starting from May 1, 2026, as part of the Renters’ Reform Act. This act also prohibits bidding wars among potential tenants and restricts landlords from increasing rent more than once per year. Additionally, landlords will be barred from discriminating against tenants based on benefits or having children, and must reasonably consider requests from tenants to keep pets.
The legislation, fulfilling a manifesto promise, recently became law after previous failed attempts by the Tories. Section 21 notices, commonly known as “no-fault evictions,” have been criticized for leaving many families at risk of homelessness annually. Housing Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the importance of providing security and peace of mind for all individuals in need of housing.
The government announced that councils in England will enforce the new regulations starting May next year, with fines of up to £7,000 for violations. Ben Twomey, Chief Executive of Generation Rent, praised the law for rebalancing the power dynamics between renters and landlords, offering relief to renters who have long faced housing insecurities.
Homelessness Minister Alison McGovern highlighted the significance of the Renters’ Rights Act in ending discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children. She underscored the Act’s role in promoting equality and fairness within the rental system, emphasizing the imminent changes that will prioritize secure and decent housing for all individuals.