Landlords, letting agents and tenants are being reminded to prepare for major changes to the private rented sector, as the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act is now in effect.

Phase one of the new legislation, which came into force on 1 May 2026, introduced new tenancy reforms designed to provide greater security and fairness for tenants, while setting out clear legal responsibilities for landlords.

Changes include the end of Section 21 ‘no‑fault’ evictions, new measures to prevent rental bidding and discrimination, and limits on how much rent can be requested in advance.

The Government has set specific legal requirements for landlords and is urging action now to ensure compliance by 31 May 2026.

• For tenancies that started before 1 May 2026 and where there is a written tenancy agreement, landlords must provide tenants with the official Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026 by 31 May 2026. This is a legal requirement and must be completed by the deadline. The information sheet is available now and can be issued immediately.
   
• For tenancies based entirely on verbal agreements started before 1 May 2026, landlords are required to give tenants specific written information about their tenancy. This information can be included within a tenancy agreement, and the Government has published guidance setting out what must be covered.

If you don’t comply with these requirements, you may have to pay a financial penalty of up to £7,000.

Councillor Graham Bell, Lead Member for Housing, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act marks a major shift in how renting works across England. By encouraging respect and communication between rental agencies and renters we can ensure that renters are protected from the vagaries of the rental market. At the same time, the many rental owners who already work to build positive mutually respectful relationships with renters will no longer have the reputation of their industry tarnished by a handful of so-called rogue landlords. 

A more level playing field protects and supports renters and letters who are willing to work together and treat each other and their homes with respect. With key deadlines approaching, it’s important that North Devon landlords act now to make sure they meet their legal responsibilities and are fully prepared for the new system.” 

Landlords can access the official information sheet and view the full implementation timeline on the North Devon Council website: www.northdevon.gov.uk/renters-rights-act-2025