The introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act on 1 May 2026 has brought significant changes to tenant notice periods in England, requiring most tenants to provide two months’ notice before ending a tenancy. This new legal requirement has raised concerns among landlords and tenants alike, particularly regarding the transition period and its impact on tenancy arrangements.

Understanding the New Notice Periods

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, tenants must now give two months’ notice to terminate their tenancy, unless their tenancy agreement explicitly states a shorter notice period or the landlord agrees to a different arrangement. This change applies from the legal start date of 1 May 2026, regardless of when tenants receive or read information about the new legislation.

There is no formal grace period allowing tenants additional time to assess their options or adjust to the new notice requirements. Consequently, tenants who had previously agreed to a one-month notice period may find themselves needing to provide two months’ notice immediately after the Act’s commencement.

Tenant Concerns and Practical Challenges

Some tenants have expressed concerns about the abrupt change, particularly those who only recently became aware of the new rules. For example, a potential tenant contacted a landlord after learning about the legislation, worried that the requirement to give two months’ notice would complicate their plans to move. They highlighted the difficulty of needing to secure a new property before serving notice, which could delay their ability to move promptly.

This situation illustrates a broader challenge: tenants may now need to have a new home lined up before they can legally give notice on their current tenancy. This requirement could extend the time tenants remain in their existing properties, potentially affecting the availability of rental homes and the timing of new tenancies.

What this means for landlords

For landlords, the Renters’ Rights Act’s notice period changes may lead to longer void periods between tenancies. Since tenants must provide two months’ notice, landlords might face delays in re-letting properties, especially if tenants wait until they have secured alternative accommodation before giving notice.

In urgent situations, landlords and tenants may find it beneficial to negotiate an early surrender of the tenancy agreement. Such agreements can help both parties avoid extended vacancies and facilitate smoother transitions between tenants.

Landlords should also review their tenancy agreements to confirm whether shorter notice periods are permitted and consider communicating clearly with tenants about their rights and responsibilities under the new legislation.

Government Guidance and Compliance

The government has provided guidance on the Renters’ Rights Act, outlining the changes and what tenants and landlords need to know. It is essential for landlords and agents to familiarise themselves with this guidance to ensure compliance and to support tenants through the transition.

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/