What Labour’s Renters’ Rights Act means for tenants and landlords
Labour's Renters' Rights Act, effective from 1 May 2026, introduces major changes to the private rental sector in England, aiming to increase security and stability for tenants. The legislation abolishes Section 21 'no-fault' evictions and eliminates fixed-term tenancy contracts, replacing them with periodic rolling contracts. Both tenants and landlords are affected by the reforms, which the government says will improve housing standards and reduce homelessness risks.
- ▪The Renters' Rights Act abolishes Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, preventing landlords from evicting tenants without providing a reason.
- ▪Fixed-term tenancy agreements are eliminated and will automatically become periodic rolling contracts with no end date.
- ▪The reforms apply to the 11 million private renters and 2.3 million landlords in England, aiming to improve housing security and quality.
- ▪The government states the changes will empower tenants to challenge poor conditions and unfair rent increases without fear of eviction.
- ▪Although initially proposed by the Conservatives, the legislation was revived and updated by Labour after previous delays prevented enactment.
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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 Thursday 30 April 2026 15:55 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":"CF1:2626537To1","articleMeta":{"url":"https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/renters-rights-act-bill-tenants-explained-b2967864.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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