Renters Right Act

The Renters' Rights Act came into force on 1 May 2026

Among the most significant changes are the end of 'no-fault' evictions and fixed term tenancies. Although the changes are mainly positive, they create a complex system where your rights depend on what type of accommodation you live in.

Different rules depending on the type of accommodation

IMPORTANT The changes may apply to a tenancy you entered into before 1 May 2026.

The changes apply to most properties in the private rented sector, except where you share accommodation with your landlord. If renting a house or flat from a private landlord your rights will depend on which of these applies to you:

• Living in a house with 3 or more unrelated students (called an "HMO" - House in Multiple Occupancy). Details on the main changes for HMO tenants are here.
• Living in a smaller flat with 1-2 people (not an HMO). All the main HMO changes apply apart from the new mandatory possession ground Ground 4A which does not. Details on the main changes are here.

They do not apply to:

• Accommodation which is rented directly from the University, i.e. University Locks. This is because students living in halls usually have licence agreements.

There are transitional arrangements for:

• Private halls aka 'Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)' covered by the ANUK/Unipol Code. There is more information on PBSA accommodation here including details of the transitional arrangments.

Further Information

It's important to note that the Renters' Rights Act is being phased in. Most changes started on 1 May 2026 but for the most up-to-date information or if you have any questions it is best to contact the Advice Team.

The government have published a comprehensive Guide to the Renters' Rights Act.