The Renters’ Rights Act will begin being implemented on May 1 and independent lettings agency Beresfords is giving this advice to landlords.
It says that with expert advice and early preparation, landlords can navigate these reforms successfully and continue to run secure and profitable tenancies.
1. Fixed-term tenancies will be abolished
All fixed-term contracts will be replaced with rolling periodic tenancies once the legislation is fully in force. This means tenancies will continue on a monthly basis until either the tenant or landlord ends them under the new rules. Beresfords is already preparing for this change by offering landlords the option to move onto periodic tenancy schemes as current fixed terms expire, ensuring both parties are ready in advance of the transition.
2. Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions will end
Landlords will only be able to end a tenancy on specific legal grounds, such as selling the property, redevelopment, or moving in themselves. However, if a landlord serves notice to sell and the property doesn’t sell, it cannot then be re-let for 12 months – a significant risk of lost rent to those landlords looking to sell up. Therefore, such decisions should not be taken lightly.
3. Rent increases will be more regulated
Rent reviews can only happen once per year and must be issued through a Section 13 Notice. The required notice period will also be extended. Tenants will have the right to appeal increases they consider unreasonable, with cases referred to an independent tribunal. These appeals could take months, delaying income adjustments, so landlords should build in extra time for rent reviews and ensure any proposed increases are sensible, fair and well-documented.
4. Local authorities gain new enforcement powers
From late December 2025, councils will have expanded investigatory powers, including the ability to seize documents and build enforcement cases against landlords or agents in breach of the rules. This adds an extra layer of accountability to the sector and highlights the importance of working with a fully regulated, compliant letting agent.
5. Pets and tenancies
Landlords will no longer be able to automatically refuse tenants with pets. While discussions around mandatory pet insurance have been rejected, the onus will be on landlords to decide how best to mitigate potential risks. Adjustments to the rent, where permitted, or tenancy terms may help provide protection while remaining compliant with the new law.
6. Greater need for professional support
With the scale of reform, Beresfords strongly recommends that landlords consider a fully managed service. This ensures compliance across tenancy documentation, rent reviews, and communication with tenants, and reduces exposure to legal or financial risk.
7. Preparation is key
Beresfords has already updated its internal processes, from tenancy renewals and rent reviews to front-office guidance and client communications. A dedicated Renters Rights Resource Hub is now live on the company website to provide landlords with the latest updates, practical advice, and downloadable resources.
Landlords are encouraged to stay informed and monitor updates as the key changes in legislation are phased in from May 1 and should review existing tenancy agreements and rent increase processes.
It’s important to seek professional guidance to ensure full compliance, avoid penalties and maintain open communication throughout with tenants, thus maintaining a smooth transition for all concerned.
Beresfords is Essex’s largest family-owned independent property group and has been operating for over 50 years.
