While some of the reforms may initially seem challenging, and despite some of the negative noise in the press, they provide legislative clarity and opportunities for landlords to refine their investment strategies.
For letting agents who already operate at the highest standard, this should be viewed as a positive opportunity to support both landlords and tenants through a period of adjustment to the new legislation and demonstrate value by guiding clients confidently through the transition. For landlords who already go above and beyond to provide safe, well-maintained homes and fair tenancy terms, the Act will help formalise the standards that many of them already meet, offering well-deserved recognition and reinforcing the value of professionalism in the industry.
How to navigate the new normal with confidence
Landlords and investors should remember that property fundamentals have not changed. With the right advice, landlords can continue to manage tenancies effectively and protect their investments.
One of the most important elements landlords need to understand under the new framework are the rules around possession. The removal of Section 21 is a big shift, but landlords should feel reassured that the updated grounds for possession cover all common reasons for needing to reclaim a property. Recent insights from the English Housing Survey reports that only 0.03% of tenancies end using Section 21, and around 65% of the notices we issued in 2025 already align with these grounds.
The best agents will review possession grounds with clients, so they understand how and when they apply, and will ensure that documentation and records are kept safe and up to date, should they ever be required.
To welcome the move to periodic tenancies, landlords and agents should prioritise managing relationships with tenants, rather than rushing to re-let. Evidence shows most tenants prioritise stability, and average tenancy lengths in the UK lasts around 20 months, with short tenancies maintaining uncommon as tenants seek stability.
In Scotland, periodic tenancies are already the norm, and our agents there have successfully supported landlords through the transition. The market also adapted here – in fact, they report an average tenancy length of 28 months, demonstrating that the option to move does not necessarily lead to tenants doing so.
The changes that allow tenants the right to request pets should not be seen as a threat. My view is that both tenants and landlords should welcome this change, making properties more appealing to a wider audience and giving both parties clear frameworks within which to approach the matter. Reasonable refusals, such as lease restrictions, will remain valid, and insurance solutions offer peace of mind.
Above all, landlords should avoid reactive decision‑making. The changes are not about penalising responsible ownership, but about raising standards and providing clarity across the sector. It’s important to consider additional insurances to mitigate increased exposure, as some of the reforms may affect how quickly you can regain possession or adjust rent. It’s worth reviewing your finances and insurances to ensure you’re prepared for any short-term impacts.
Clear and consistent communication is key
Alongside the broader reforms, there are administrative responsibilities that landlords and agents must prioritise. By the end of May, tenants must receive the prescribed government information explaining the new Act. Where a property is managed by an agent, responsibility for issuing this rests with the agent, regardless of whether the landlord has already provided it.
This is relevant for assured or assured shorthold tenancies created before 1st May 2026 that have a written record of terms, and the information sheet must be provided as a physical hard copy or as a PDF attachment via email / text. Failure to supply tenants with the sheet by the deadline could result in fines of up to £7000.
For agents, this is a critical moment to maintain close contact with landlords, ensure information is distributed correctly and retain clear records of all communications. Getting this right from the outset supports compliance and avoids complications later.
Working together for success
We understand that change brings uncertainty and the appetite for information is more palpable than ever. Whether it’s understanding new legal requirements or maximising rental income, professional lettings agents are here to make landlord journeys smoother and more rewarding. From ensuring notices are correctly served to advising on rent increases and possession grounds, our role is to provide clarity and confidence. We help landlords stay compliant, flexible and informed.
With expert guidance, landlords can navigate the new status quo with confidence. As agents, we can advise that property remains a resilient long-term investment. What’s new is a framework that encourages consistency, accountability and better outcomes for all parties.
I believe the Renters’ Rights Act will raise the bar across the sector and should be welcomed, not feared. It’s a chance to reinforce professionalism, build stronger tenancies and support landlords and tenants alike through the period of adjustment and into a new era for our sector.
