The Renters’ Rights Act landlord checklist for 2026

What changed on 1 May 2026?

Existing assured shorthold tenancies moved into the new assured periodic tenancy system and new assured tenancies are periodic. The practical effect is that landlords need to review old assumptions about fixed terms, rent changes and possession.

The rules discussed here apply to England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own housing law.

• Identify when the tenancy began
• Record whether its terms were written or entirely verbal
• Review the official landlord overview

Check the tenancy information

For an existing tenancy with a written agreement, the official overview says the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet had to be given by 31 May 2026. An entirely verbal tenancy requires written information about its key terms.

Keep the exact document version, recipients, delivery method, date and supporting evidence. Do not backdate a late action.

• Use the correct document for the tenancy
• Give it to every named tenant
• Retain evidence of delivery

Use structured processes

A tenant can request to keep a pet and a refusal needs a valid reason. Rent increases for assured periodic tenancies use Form 4A and the section 13 process with at least two months’ notice.

Record dates, requests, further information, written decisions and delivery rather than relying on an informal message history.

• Track pet-request response dates
• Check rent increase eligibility
• Keep decisions and reasons in writing

Your practical next steps

Run through the tenancy record, safety documents, deposit information and open repair issues. Create a short action list ordered by urgency, then set reminders for dates that are not yet due.

• Complete the free Dealtwith tenancy check
• Deal with missing or overdue information first
• Recheck GOV.UK when the tenancy changes