Renting privately in England: your rights
Updated . Checked against official sources.
The Renters' Rights Act changed private renting on 1 May 2026, and a national register of landlords opens in December. Here's what that means for you, in plain English and checked against official sources.
What's changed for renters
No more "no fault" evictions
Section 21 has gone. Your landlord needs a legal reason and, to sell or move in, has to give 4 months' notice and can't use it in your first 12 months.
Notice periods explainedRent rises once a year
Only with 2 months' notice on an official form, and you can challenge it at a tribunal for £47.
Check your rent increaseNo fixed terms
Tenancies roll on month to month. You can leave with 2 months' notice in writing.
Giving noticeA register of landlords
Every landlord must register, region by region, from 15 December 2026. Renters will be able to check, once the government sets out how.
Is my landlord registered?Up to 24 months' rent back
If your landlord let without a required licence or evicted you illegally, you may be able to claim back up to 24 months' rent.
Rent repayment ordersPets, bidding and bans
You can ask for a pet and get an answer within 28 days. Landlords can't take offers above the advertised rent, or refuse you for having children or claiming benefits.
Everything the Act changedGet told when you can check your landlord
The government has said renters will be able to check whether a landlord is registered. We'll email you when that's possible, and if the rules on what you can see change. Nothing else.
Where to get help
We explain the rules; we can't advise on your situation. For that, try Citizens Advice, Shelter, or your council's housing team. If you're being forced out without a court order, call the police.