The government has revealed that significant protections for millions of renters will be put in place within the next six months. Effective from May 1, 2026, the Renters’ Reform Act will prohibit Section 21 eviction notices, which allow landlords to evict tenants without cause. Additionally, bidding wars between prospective tenants will be banned, and landlords will be restricted from raising rent more than once a year.
Under the new legislation, landlords will be prohibited from discriminating against tenants based on factors such as receiving benefits or having children. They will also be required to reasonably consider tenants’ requests to keep pets. This law, which was part of the government’s manifesto, was recently enacted after a long delay since it was initially promised by the Tories almost ten years ago.
Section 21 notices, commonly known as “no-fault evictions,” have been criticized for leaving numerous families at risk of homelessness annually. Housing Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the importance of providing security to all individuals in need of housing. Local councils in England will be tasked with enforcing the new regulations starting in May, with the authority to impose fines up to £7,000 for violations.
Generation Rent’s Chief Executive, Ben Twomey, hailed the Renters’ Rights Act as a crucial step towards rebalancing the renter-landlord power dynamic. He expressed relief that the outdated Section 21 evictions will soon be eliminated, offering renters a sense of security. Homelessness Minister Alison McGovern echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the end of discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children. She highlighted the Act’s commitment to fairness and equality within the rental system, aiming to provide safe and secure homes for all.