What Labour’s Renters’ Rights Act means for tenants and landlords
Labour's Renters' Rights Act came into effect on 1 May 2026, introducing major reforms to the private rental sector in England. The legislation abolishes Section 21 'no-fault' evictions and eliminates fixed-term tenancy contracts, replacing them with periodic rolling contracts. The changes aim to increase security and stability for the 11 million private renters while holding landlords accountable for housing standards.
- ▪The Renters' Rights Act abolishes Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, preventing landlords from evicting tenants without providing a reason.
- ▪Fixed-term tenancy contracts are eliminated and automatically converted into periodic rolling contracts with no end date.
- ▪The reforms apply to England's 11 million private renters and 2.3 million landlords, aiming to improve housing security and quality.
- ▪The legislation was originally proposed by the Conservatives in 2019 but was passed and implemented by the Labour government.
- ▪The government states the act will help prevent homelessness by giving tenants greater stability in their homes.
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NewsUKHome NewsWhat Labour’s Renters’ Rights Act means for tenants and landlordsFrom new eviction protections to the right to own pets – here’s what to know about the new rental lawsAlbert Toth Friday 01 May 2026 10:21 BSTBookmarkCommentsGo to commentsBookmark popoverRemoved from bookmarksClose popover{"translations":{"comments":"Go to comments","share":"Share","copyLink":"Copy link","bookmark":"Bookmark","removeBookmark":"Remove bookmark"},"showComments":true,"showBookmark":true,"articleId":"CF1:2967864To1","articleMeta":{"url":"https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/labour-renters-rights-act-bill-tenants-explained-b2968730.html","title":"What Labour’s Renters’ Rights Act means for tenants and landlords"}}The Independent speaks to homelessness minister Alison McGovern MPYour…
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