If you are a landlord, this spring is an important time to get up to date with the changes coming to the private rented sector in England.
From 1 May 2026, the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act reforms will begin. Government guidance says these changes include the end of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, alongside a new tenancy system and measures affecting issues such as rental bidding, discrimination and rent in advance1.
The government has also published the official Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026. Landlords and agents must give this to relevant tenants, and the government says it must be provided on or before 31 May 2026 where required. New assured tenancy forms for privately rented properties in England have also been published for use from 1 May 20262.
For landlords, this is not just a legal update. It is a chance to make sure your tenancy arrangements are clear, fair and fit for the new rules.
That matters for good consumer outcomes. In practice, that means helping tenants understand their rights, making sure the correct information is provided on time, and ensuring that tenancy processes are handled properly rather than left until the last minute. Early preparation can reduce confusion, avoid unnecessary disputes and support a more stable tenancy for both landlord and tenant. Government guidance aimed at landlords says now is the time to get ready1.
A sensible review now could include:
- checking whether your tenancy documents and processes need updating
- making sure you understand when and how the new rules apply
- being ready to provide the official information sheet where required
- reviewing how you communicate changes clearly to tenants
- checking whether your mortgage and wider property plans still support your long-term strategy
The key point is not to panic, but not to drift either.
If you leave preparation until the final weeks, there is a greater risk of missed steps, outdated paperwork or unnecessary pressure. Reviewing things now gives you more time to understand the changes, put the right processes in place and make considered decisions.
For some landlords, that may also be a useful moment to review whether their current mortgage arrangements still suit their plans for the property. But the main priority is
making sure you are ready for the new tenancy rules and able to support tenants appropriately as they come into force.
Landlords should also be aware of another important change coming very soon. From 6 April 2026, Making Tax Digital for Income Tax will begin to apply to landlords with qualifying income over £50,000. That means affected landlords will need to keep digital records, use compatible software and send quarterly updates to HMRC3.
For some, this will be a significant change from the way they currently manage tax reporting. Alongside preparing for the new rental rules, now is also a sensible time to check whether you may fall within scope for Making Tax Digital and whether your record-keeping processes are ready. Early preparation can help reduce the risk of last-minute pressure, missed requirements and unnecessary disruption.
References:
- GOV.UK (2026). Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act. [online] GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act [Accessed 24 Mar. 2026].
- The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026. (2026). Available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69bc04b8f7b1c24d8e23ce60/The_Renters__Rights_Act_Information_Sheet_2026.pdf.
- HM Revenue & Customs (2025). One year until Making Tax Digital for Income Tax launches. [online] GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/one-year-until-making-tax-digital-for-income-tax-launches [Accessed 24 Mar. 2026].
Your home/property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other debt secured on it.
The FCA does not regulate some forms of Buy to Lets.
All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 26th March 2026. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
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