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FAQs

  1. Can I still evict a tenant if I want to sell the property or move back in?

    Yes, but the rules have tightened. You can no longer use Section 21. Instead, you must use Section 8 (Grounds 1 or 1A). Crucially, you cannot use these grounds during the first 12 months of a new tenancy, and you must provide the tenant with 4 months’ notice.

  2. What happens to my existing fixed-term tenancies on May 1st?

    They will automatically convert into periodic (rolling) tenancies. Any “end date” in your current contract will lose its legal effect. Your tenants will gain the right to stay indefinitely unless you have a valid Section 8 ground for possession.

  3. How much notice does a tenant have to give me to move out?

    Tenants can end a tenancy at any time by giving 2 months’ notice. Because fixed terms are gone, a tenant could theoretically move in and give notice almost immediately, though they would still be liable for those first two months of rent.

  4. Can I still ask for 6 months’ rent in advance?

    No. The Act bans landlords and agents from requesting or accepting more than one month’s rent in advance. This is designed to stop “bidding wars” and make renting more accessible for those without large savings.

  5. Do I have to issue new contracts to my current tenants

    Not necessarily. You don’t need to rewrite existing written agreements, but you must provide every tenant with an official Government Information Sheet by May 31st, 2026. Failure to do so can result in a fine of up to £7,000.

  6. What is the “Landlord Redress Scheme” and do I have to join?

    Yes. All private landlords must join a new Mandatory Ombudsman scheme. This allows tenants to resolve complaints (like repair delays) without going to court. There will likely be an annual fee for membership, and you cannot legally let a property without it.

  7. What are the new rules for “Student Lets”?

    The Government introduced a specific ground (Ground 4A) for student HMOs. This allows landlords to regain possession at the end of the academic year to ensure the property is ready for the next intake, provided you give notice between May and July.

  8. What if my tenant falls into rent arrears?

    The threshold for “serious rent arrears” has increased. You can now only serve a mandatory possession notice once the tenant owes 3 months of rent (up from 2 months). The notice period for this ground has also increased to 4 weeks.

  9. Can I still refuse a tenant because they are on benefits?

    No. The Act makes it illegal to have “No DSS” or “No Families” policies. You must assess every applicant based on their individual financial ability to pay the rent (e.g., via a guarantor or affordability check) rather than their source of income or family status.

  10. What is the “Private Rented Sector Database”?

    This is a new digital “Landlord Register.” You will be required to register yourself and your properties. It will store information like Gas Safety certificates and EPCs. If you aren’t registered, you may be blocked from using certain eviction grounds.