The government has released an information sheet detailing the Renters’ Rights Act, emphasising that landlords must provide this document to tenants by 31 May 2026 or face fines of up to £7,000. The sheet outlines significant changes to tenancy arrangements, including the abolition of fixed-term tenancies and new rules on rent increases.

Mandatory provision of the information sheet

Under the new legislation, landlords are required to supply a copy of the Renters’ Rights Act information sheet to every tenant named on the tenancy agreement. This applies to assured and assured shorthold tenancies created before 1 May 2026 that have a wholly or partly written record of terms, including a written tenancy agreement.

If a letting agent manages the property, the agent is responsible for providing the information sheet to tenants, even if the landlord has already done so. The government specifies that the document must be delivered either as a printed hard copy—posted or handed directly to tenants—or electronically as a PDF attachment via email or text message. Simply sending a link to the PDF is not considered valid.

Importantly, landlords are not required to amend or reissue any existing tenancy agreements as part of this process.

Consequences of non-compliance

Failure to provide the information sheet to tenants by the 31 May 2026 deadline could result in landlords facing fines of up to £7,000. This significant penalty underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring tenants are fully informed of their rights under the new Act.

Special provisions for student landlords

The government has also outlined specific provisions for student landlords. They must formally notify tenants by 31 May 2026 if they intend to end the tenancy using Ground 4A of the Renters’ Rights Act. Between 1 May and 30 July 2026, landlords can give tenants two months’ notice to terminate the tenancy under this ground. After 30 July 2026, the required notice period increases to at least four months.

Industry response to the information sheet

The government advises tenants to read the information sheet carefully, although they are not required to take any action themselves. Ben Twomey, chief executive of Generation Rent, described the Act as “a major step towards re-balancing power between renters and landlords, giving us greater security in our homes.” He urged renters to understand their new rights and how to respond if landlords do not comply.

Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), welcomed the publication, stating it “will provide vital assurance and clarity about what [landlords] need to do next.” He emphasised the importance of landlords working with tenants to ensure a smooth transition to the new system starting 1 May.

Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, highlighted the need for clear and consistent communication between letting agents, landlords, and tenants. He reiterated that letting agents must ensure all tenants receive the information sheet by the deadline to avoid fines. Emerson also stressed that sharing a web link alone does not meet the communication requirements and advised agents to keep detailed records of all communications for compliance purposes.

What this means for landlords

Landlords must act promptly to ensure they comply with the Renters’ Rights Act requirements. Providing the information sheet correctly and on time is essential to avoid substantial fines. Those using letting agents should confirm that the agents are aware of their responsibilities in delivering the document to tenants. Additionally, landlords should familiarise themselves with the new notice periods, especially if they rent to students, to avoid procedural errors.

Maintaining clear records of communications and tenant notifications will be crucial in demonstrating compliance if challenged. The government’s approach signals a shift towards greater transparency and tenant protection, requiring landlords to adapt their practices accordingly.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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