The Renters’ Rights Act, which came into effect on 1 May 2026, has been welcomed by tenant groups and politicians alike as a significant reform in the private rental sector. The legislation abolishes Section 21 evictions and ends fixed-term tenancies, marking a substantial shift in renters’ protections.

Celebrating new tenant protections

An event held at Number 10 Downing Street this week brought together tenant advocacy groups, politicians, and landlord representatives to mark the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act. Among those present were Generation Rent and the Renters’ Reform Coalition, who praised the new legal framework for recognising the changing nature of renting in the UK.

Generation Rent’s chief executive, Ben Twomey, highlighted that the Act acknowledges how renting has evolved over the past forty years and emphasised the importance of allowing renters to establish roots in their communities without fear of arbitrary eviction. The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, also spoke at the event, describing the legislation as a means to “rip up the failed status quo” and emphasised that the reforms would deliver real, practical benefits for renters.

Key provisions of the Renters’ Rights Act

The Act introduces several landmark changes to tenancy law. Most notably, it abolishes Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, which previously allowed landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason. It also ends fixed-term tenancies, signalling a move towards more secure and flexible rental agreements. Additionally, the legislation targets unfair rent increases and bans bidding wars, measures intended to protect tenants from exploitative practices.

Political support and wider attendance

Sir Keir Starmer reiterated the government’s commitment to reforming the rental sector, stating: “We had to fight for this. We did this very much together. This is not a dry piece of legislation that just sits on the statute books, it makes a real impact for renters.” He further asserted that the Act would “help working people” by shifting power back into their hands after decades of systemic disadvantage.

The event also saw attendance from landlord groups, including the National Residential Landlords Association and The Independent Landlord, indicating a broad engagement across the sector in response to the new legislation.

Angela Rayner’s presence and related context

Former Housing Secretary Angela Rayner was also present at the Downing Street event. This followed her recent public statements claiming she had been “exonerated by HMRC of deliberately avoiding tax” in relation to a stamp duty issue. Ms Rayner resigned from her roles as Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary after admitting to an incorrect stamp duty payment on her flat in Hove. HMRC has declined to comment on her claims, citing confidentiality laws.

What this means for landlords

The abolition of Section 21 evictions and the end of fixed-term tenancies represent a significant change for landlords, requiring adjustments to how tenancies are managed and ended. Landlords will need to rely on alternative legal grounds for possession, which may involve more rigorous documentation and adherence to procedural requirements. The ban on no-fault evictions and controls on rent increases also mean landlords must engage more collaboratively with tenants and ensure compliance with the new regulations.

While the reforms aim to provide greater security and fairness for renters, landlords and agents will need to stay informed and adapt their practices accordingly to navigate the evolving legal landscape effectively.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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