## Understanding the Impact of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025

On 1 May 2026, Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 will come into force, bringing substantial reforms to tenancy law in England. Among the most notable changes are the abolition of section 21 ‘no-fault’ eviction notices and the end of fixed-term tenancy agreements. These reforms mean tenants will have greater control over how long they remain in a property, shifting the dynamic between landlords and tenants significantly.

For landlords, this means the traditional approach of letting a property for a fixed period and regaining possession at the end of that term will no longer apply. Instead, tenants may stay indefinitely unless there are valid grounds for eviction under the new legal framework. This shift places a premium on selecting tenants who are likely to maintain a good tenancy over the long term.

## Choose Tenants with a Long-Term Mindset

Given the abolition of fixed-term tenancies and section 21 notices, landlords must approach tenant selection as if the tenant could remain in the property for many years, potentially a decade or more. This change requires landlords to be more diligent in screening applicants to avoid tenants who may cause rent arrears or behave poorly.

Landlords should never accept tenants without thorough referencing, even if there is pressure to fill a vacancy quickly. Proper referencing helps ensure tenants have a stable income, a good rental history, and a reliable character. This approach reduces the risk of costly void periods and problematic tenancies, which can be more challenging to resolve under the new legal regime.

## Verify Identity and Documents to Prevent Fraud

Another crucial step in tenant selection is verifying the identity and documentation of applicants to guard against fraud. Landlords should use referencing companies that specialise in checking for fraudulent documents and misrepresentations, such as overstated income or false employment details.

Fraudulent applications can lead to serious issues, including tenants using the property for criminal activities or failing to pay rent. Letting agents should be required to provide landlords with access to all reference materials before finalising any tenancy agreements. This transparency ensures landlords can make informed decisions based on verified information.

## Meet Prospective Tenants in Person

Meeting prospective tenants face-to-face remains an important part of the selection process, especially under the new tenancy framework. Since tenants may stay for an extended period, landlords need to feel comfortable with the individuals they rent to and assess whether they are likely to maintain a positive landlord-tenant relationship.

Even if landlords use letting agents, it is advisable to meet applicants personally when possible. If a landlord feels uneasy or uncomfortable with a tenant, it is wise to trust that instinct and consider other applicants. Building a good rapport from the outset can help prevent disputes and foster a cooperative tenancy.

## The Importance of Tenant Choice

Ultimately, the choice of tenant is one of the most critical decisions a landlord makes. A tenant who is honest, cooperative, and respectful can make managing a property straightforward, even when challenges arise. Conversely, a difficult or uncooperative tenant can make the landlord’s role stressful and complicated.

Landlords should bear this in mind when selecting tenants under the new legal framework introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. Taking the time to choose carefully will pay dividends in the long run.

Landlord Law members can access detailed guidance on tenant selection in the tenancy checklists available on their platform.

## Suggested internal link anchors

– Renters’ Rights Act 2025
– section 21 abolition
– fixed-term tenancies
– tenant referencing
– identity verification
– tenancy checklists
– letting agents responsibilities
– tenant fraud prevention
– long-term tenancy management
– landlord-tenant relationship

## TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/