The government has confirmed that no additional tenant protections will be introduced before the Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect on 1 May 2026. This means landlords can expect the current rules, including Section 21 eviction notices, to remain in place until the new legislation is implemented. For landlords, agents, and property managers, this provides clarity on the regulatory environment for the next 18 months and highlights the importance of preparing for the upcoming changes.

Background to the Renters’ Rights Act

The Renters’ Rights Act represents a significant overhaul of the private rented sector’s regulatory framework. One of its key provisions is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, which currently allow landlords to regain possession of their property without providing a reason. The Act will also convert all fixed-term tenancies into periodic tenancies, creating a new tenancy system designed to offer greater security for tenants.

Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook confirmed these details in response to a written parliamentary question from Labour MP Ben Coleman. Mr Pennycook emphasised that the government’s manifesto commitment to reform the private rented sector will be delivered through this Act, which is scheduled to come into force on 1 May 2026.

No interim tenant protections before May 2026

In his response, Mr Pennycook made it clear that the government has no plans to introduce any additional tenant protections before the Renters’ Rights Act is implemented. This means that landlords can continue to serve Section 21 notices under the current legal framework until the new tenancy rules take effect.

For landlords and agents, this confirmation provides certainty about the status quo for the immediate future. However, it also underscores the importance of staying informed and preparing for the changes that the Act will bring, particularly the shift to periodic tenancies and the removal of Section 21 evictions.

Support for tenants at risk of eviction

While no new protections will be introduced before May 2026, tenants facing eviction are advised to seek support from specialist organisations such as Shelter and Citizens Advice. These charities offer guidance and assistance to tenants navigating eviction processes under the current legislation.

The government has also allocated £644.17 million through the Homelessness Prevention Grant for 2025/26, which represents an uplift of £203.8 million compared to the previous year. This funding supports local authorities in delivering services aimed at preventing and responding to homelessness, which may indirectly affect landlords managing tenancies at risk of ending.

Implications for landlords and agents

Landlords should use the time before May 2026 to familiarise themselves with the forthcoming changes and consider how they will affect tenancy agreements, eviction procedures, and property management practices. The abolition of Section 21 evictions will require landlords to rely on alternative grounds for possession, making it essential to maintain good tenant relationships and ensure compliance with all legal obligations.

Agents and property managers will also need to update their processes and advice to landlords in line with the new tenancy system. Clear communication with tenants about their rights and responsibilities under the Renters’ Rights Act will be crucial to ensuring a smooth transition.

Looking ahead: TLA’s Trusted Partners Hub

In anticipation of these changes, the Tenant and Landlord Association (TLA) is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in the first quarter of 2026. This platform will feature verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses.

Legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers interested in joining the Trusted Partners Hub are invited to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/