Landlords given clarity on reforms as Renters’ Rights Act takes effect

The Renters’ Rights Act came into force on 1 May 2026, bringing significant changes to tenancy agreements and notice periods. The government has now provided landlords with detailed guidance on how these reforms affect notice periods and rent payments made in advance, clarifying key aspects of the new periodic tenancy system.

Clarification on rent periods and notice under the new system

In response to a written parliamentary question, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook explained how tenancies where rent is paid in advance will be treated under the Renters’ Rights Act. This legislation requires that tenancy and rent periods for Assured Periodic Tenancies cannot exceed one month. Any longer or irregular rent payment arrangements will be converted to monthly cycles.

Mr Pennycook stated: “From 1 May, under the Renters’ Rights Act, the tenancy and rent periods of an Assured Periodic Tenancy must be the same and cannot be longer than one month.” He further clarified that if a tenancy was mid-period on 1 May 2026, the new period structure would only apply once that period ended. If the existing period was longer than one month, the tenancy would automatically switch to monthly periods after the current period finishes.

Notice periods for tenants

The Minister also confirmed that tenants can end their tenancy by providing at least two months’ notice, which must align with the end of a rental period. However, if the landlord agrees in writing or if a shorter notice period is already specified in the tenancy agreement, tenants may give less than two months’ notice.

Mr Pennycook added that fixed-term tenancies transitioning on 1 May 2026 will now operate with monthly tenancy periods under the new system.

Potential impact on the student rental market

Industry experts have expressed concerns that these reforms could disrupt the student rental market. Many university students, particularly those studying humanities, have no lectures during the summer term, using the period from April to June for revision, exams, and submitting final essays.

This change means students may choose to end their tenancies earlier than previously possible. For example, if a student submits notice in May, they could finish their contract in July instead of the traditional August or September end dates. This flexibility could lead to more frequent tenancy turnovers in student accommodation.

What this means for landlords

Landlords must now ensure that tenancy agreements comply with the one-month maximum rent and tenancy period rule. Those with existing arrangements involving longer or irregular payment cycles will need to transition to monthly periods, which may require updating contracts and payment schedules.

The two-month minimum notice period for tenants provides some predictability, but landlords should be prepared for increased flexibility in tenancy endings, especially in markets with high student occupancy. Clear communication and written agreements regarding notice periods remain essential to avoid disputes.

Additional support and guidance for landlords and tenants are available through government resources, helping to navigate these changes effectively.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

TLA Training Academy

The Landlord Association has launched its new Training Academy for UK landlords, providing structured guidance, compliance education, and practical knowledge to support landlords at every stage. Members can now complete the programme and become TLA Certified Landlords at no additional cost as part of their membership.

Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/

Those looking to join and access the full training and certification can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/landlord-association-membership-uk/

TLA update

The Landlord Association is currently onboarding new service providers into its Trusted Partner Hub, a new initiative designed to support landlords, tenants, letting agents, and property managers with vetted, high-quality services. As one of the fastest growing landlord associations in the UK, TLA offers partners direct access to an engaged and active member base at the point of need. Service providers across legal, maintenance, insurance, finance, mortgages, tenant screening, and property services can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/