Landlords should prepare for the new rental laws being introduced in 2026 (the Renters’ Rights Act) by familiarising themselves with new legislation, switching fixed-term tenancies to periodic tenancies and reviewing rent increase and eviction procedures.
From 2026, the UK government is clamping down on landlord practices and introducing stricter laws. Landlords need to stay ahead of the game in order to avoid any financial or legal impacts.
Being a landlord isn’t always easy, especially with changing legislation. At J Property Management London, we help simplify landlord duties. Here, we break down the new rental laws to help you get ahead of the game and stay compliant.
Need some extra help? Contact us to see how we can offer you a personalised property management service, whatever your needs.
Ultimate Landlord Checklist For New Rental Laws In 2026
There’s a lot for landlords to think about in 2026 with the Renters’ Rights Act coming into action in May.
Here’s everything that landlords need to do before May 1st to stay ahead of the changing laws.
Change Tenancies From Fixed To Periodic
From May onwards, all tenancies will need to become periodic (open-ended) rather than fixed-term – a big adjustment for many landlords. We’d advise getting ahead of the game by gradually changing all tenancies to periodic in the coming months so that it’s not such a big change in May. Landlords should also note that there’ll be stricter policies when it comes to ending tenancies. If they want to end the tenancy they must provide a specific, legally valid reason.
Update Tenancy Agreement Template
With all these changes taking place, it has key implications for landlords and tenants which must be reflected in any tenancy agreements signed from May onwards. Now is a good time to draft a new tenancy agreement template, taking into account all the changes. Importantly, all new tenancy agreements should reflect that tenancies should now be periodic rather than fixed-term. If you need help drafting a legally-binding tenancy agreement, our team is always happy to help – get in touch today!
Review Eviction Processes
As part of the new rules for landlords, Section 21 notices (“no-fault” evictions) have been abolished. This means that landlords can no longer evict a tenant without providing a reason. Landlords should familiarise themselves with the new eviction procedure and notice period and what this means for them and their tenants going forward. They should review what actually warrants grounds for eviction such as ongoing rent arrears or antisocial behaviour.
Inspect Your Property
The new rental laws call for stricter property standards in line with the Decent Homes Standard. For this reason, now could be a good time to prepare your rental property. Make time to schedule a property inspection and carry out any necessary maintenance and repairs ahead of time.
If you have a property portfolio, now is a good time to review all the properties, inspect them for any potential risks and make any changes to adhere to new safety standards. We know that scheduling inspections and organising maintenance and repairs isn’t always easy – especially with multiple properties. If you’re looking for an extra hand, we can help you stay on top of it. We work with local contractors to get any necessary maintenance carried out quickly, professionally and efficiently.
Contact us today!
Plan Rent Increases With Care
From May onwards, rent increases will be limited to once per 12 months – with a two-month notice period. Landlords may want to consider their rent increase strategy deciding when it makes the most sense to increase rent for tenants.
Update Property Marketing And Tenant Screening Processes
The new rental laws are designed to minimise discrimination against tenants so landlords should update their advertising and tenant screening, removing any mention of no pets, no benefits or no families with children.
Landlords must also publish a clear asking price and make it clear that bidding wars are banned.
Get Ahead Of Digital Tax Compliance
Even earlier than the Renters’ Rights Act in May, digital tax reporting will be obligatory from April 2026. Landlords should make sure they’re on top of new deadlines (quarterly reporting rather than annually) and familiarise themselves with digital tax reporting in accordance with Making Tax Digital (the new software for landlords to declare their income).
Hire Professional Help
Now may be a good time to consider using a property management company. The new rental laws come with lots of changes and complexities. At J Property Management, we can help you understand what these new legal changes mean for you and how to stay on top of them.
Whether you need full property management solutions to stay on top of everything or just a helping hand with things like tenancy agreements or tenant sourcing without discrimination, we can help. We’ll prepare a personalised property management solution to suit your specific needs.
Professional Support For Landlords With J Property Management
If you’re worried about what the new rental laws in 2026 mean for you as a landlord, we totally get it and are here to help.
At J Property Management, we are experts in helping landlords through the various legal changes and ensuring that their properties are kept to the highest standards. We offer professional, affordable and personalised services so that you can get the most out of your rental property.
Contact us today to discuss your property management needs!
