Moving advice for tenants evicted under new Renters’ Rights Act

Moving advice for tenants evicted under new Renters’ Rights Act

Tenants facing eviction due to their landlord selling the property are advised on practical steps to manage the move and understand their rights under the Renters’ Rights Act effective from May 2026.

Tenants who learn that their landlord intends to sell a rental property often face uncertainty about how long they have to vacate, the status of their tenancy, and the financial impact of an unexpected move. Mark Freeman of South Park Removals offers guidance to help tenants prepare practically while ensuring they understand their legal position.

The Renters’ Rights Act, which came into force in England on 1 May 2026, requires landlords to follow a strict legal process to regain possession of a property. This legislation aims to provide tenants with clearer protections and notice requirements, but it does not mean tenants must leave immediately upon the landlord’s decision to sell.

Legal framework and tenant rights under the Renters’ Rights Act

The Renters’ Rights Act represents a significant reform in tenancy law, strengthening tenant protections by mandating landlords to adhere to specified procedures before repossessing a property. This includes serving proper notices and obtaining possession orders through the courts where necessary.

For tenants, this means eviction cannot be enforced without due process, and they have a defined period to find alternative accommodation. The Act also aims to reduce unlawful evictions and improve security of tenure, although the exact notice periods and conditions vary depending on the tenancy type and grounds for possession.

Landlords must ensure compliance with the Act’s requirements to avoid legal challenges. For tenants, understanding these rights is crucial before making decisions about moving out or negotiating with landlords.

Practical moving advice for tenants facing eviction

Mark Freeman advises tenants to avoid panic and not rush into packing immediately upon hearing about a landlord’s intention to sell. Instead, tenants should first seek written confirmation of the landlord’s plans and clarify the timescale for vacating the property.

Early decluttering is recommended to reduce moving burdens. Sorting possessions room by room well ahead of the move can save time and effort. Tenants should also prepare a realistic moving budget that includes rent and deposit for the new property, removal costs, packing materials, transport, and possible storage fees.

Confirming exact move-out and move-in dates before booking removals is essential to avoid costly changes. If there is a gap between leaving the current property and moving into the new one, temporary storage solutions may be necessary, with easy access to essential items maintained.

Finally, tenants should prepare a comprehensive checklist for the move-out process. This includes redirecting mail, updating addresses, taking final meter readings, returning keys, and documenting the property’s condition with dated photographs to prevent disputes over deposits.

Implications for landlords and letting agents

Landlords must be aware that the Renters’ Rights Act imposes stricter rules on possession proceedings. Selling a property does not automatically terminate a tenancy, and landlords must follow the legal process to regain possession. Failure to do so risks unlawful eviction claims and potential penalties.

Letting agents play a key role in advising landlords on compliance with the Act and managing tenant communications sensitively to avoid disputes. Proper notice and documentation are critical, as is understanding the tenant’s rights to remain until possession is legally granted.

For landlords planning to sell, early engagement with tenants and clear communication about timelines can help reduce stress and avoid last-minute complications. Agents should also guide tenants on their rights and practical moving considerations, supporting smoother transitions.

What remains uncertain and areas to monitor

While the Renters’ Rights Act clarifies many aspects of possession and eviction, some practical uncertainties remain. For example, the impact on eviction timelines in cases of landlord sales versus other possession grounds can vary. How courts interpret certain provisions may evolve through case law.

Additionally, the financial pressures on tenants caused by unexpected moves remain a concern, especially where housing availability is tight. Monitoring how local authorities and support services respond to increased demand for housing advice and temporary accommodation will be important.

Landlords and agents should watch for any government updates or guidance clarifying procedural details or offering additional support measures for tenants affected by sales-related evictions.

Steps landlords should take now

Landlords should review their possession procedures to ensure full compliance with the Renters’ Rights Act. This includes verifying that notices are correctly served and that possession claims follow the required legal steps.

Engaging early with tenants about sales plans and potential timelines can help manage expectations and reduce conflict. Maintaining clear, written communication is essential for evidence in case of disputes.

Letting agents and landlords should also check for any local licensing or additional regulatory requirements that might affect possession or eviction processes in their area.

Preparing for tenant queries and providing or signposting independent housing advice can help tenants understand their rights and reduce misunderstandings.

Keeping your rental properties compliant

Membership of The Landlord Association (TLA) offers landlords and letting agents access to up-to-date compliance resources and practical guidance on the Renters’ Rights Act and possession procedures. TLA’s developing property management platform, ORBIT, currently in BETA testing, is designed to help members organise tenancy documentation, record communications, and manage compliance tasks efficiently.

Using ORBIT can assist in maintaining clear records of notices served, possession claims, and tenant communications, which are vital under the new legal framework. TLA membership also provides access to expert advice and resources to help landlords and agents stay informed about ongoing regulatory changes and best practice in managing tenancies and evictions.

Explore TLA membership and learn more about ORBIT BETA access to support your property management and compliance needs as legislation evolves.

The Renters’ Rights Act has introduced important protections for tenants, but landlords and agents must adapt their practices accordingly. Staying informed and organised will be essential to managing possession processes smoothly and lawfully.

Sources: Landlord Today