Question 1

What is the Renters' Rights Act 2025?

Accepted Answer

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 became law on 27 October 2025, with its key provisions activating on 1 May 2026. It abolished Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, converted all existing ASTs to rolling periodic tenancies, gave tenants the right to keep pets (subject to insurance), made 'No DSS' discrimination illegal, and capped deposits at 5 weeks' rent.

Question 2

Is Section 21 really abolished?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 was abolished by the Renters' Rights Act 2025 with effect from 1 May 2026. Landlords can no longer evict tenants without a valid legal reason. Possession proceedings must now use Section 8 grounds, which have been expanded to include cases where landlords genuinely want to sell or move into the property.

Question 3

What happened to existing fixed-term tenancies?

Accepted Answer

From 1 May 2026, all existing Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) automatically converted to rolling monthly periodic tenancies. New tenancies are only permitted on a rolling periodic basis — new fixed-term tenancies are no longer allowed for residential lettings.

Question 4

Can landlords still refuse pets under the new law?

Accepted Answer

Landlords can no longer unreasonably refuse a tenant's request to keep a pet. Tenants must make the request in writing and the landlord has 28 days to respond. Landlords can require pet insurance or a higher deposit (up to one week extra) to cover pet damage.

Question 5

How does rent increase work under the Renters' Rights Act?

Accepted Answer

Landlords can only increase rent once per year using a Section 13 notice, giving at least 2 months' written notice. Tenants can challenge the increase at the First-tier Tribunal if they believe it exceeds the market rate. Backdating rent increases or using lease clauses to increase rent more frequently is no longer permitted.