Renters’ Rights Act: Key Phase 1 Dates
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Changes to the private rental landscape are coming fast, and landlords must be prepared. Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act will begin to take effect on 1 May 2026, marking the start of major reforms.
Phase 1 introduces new rules that will affect how landlords manage tenancies and eviction proceedings, including the ban on ‘no-fault’ evictions under Section 21.
The key dates below outline the primary milestones during the Phase 1 transition period:
| Date | What it means for landlords |
|---|---|
| 30 April 2026 | Final day to serve a Section 21 notice. The notice must be considered served prior to this date to remain valid under current rules. |
| 1 May 2026 | Phase 1 implementation begins – the first stage of reforms come into force. |
| 31 May 2026 | Deadline for landlords to provide tenants with the government Information Sheet or written terms. |
| 31 July 2026 | Deadline to issue court proceedings relying on Section 21 notices served before 1 May 2026. |
Landlords who plan to rely on Section 21 notices must ensure these deadlines are met. Notices served outside the transition window may no longer be enforceable.
What Else Will Change?
Phase 1 is part of a wider programme, which, when fully rolled out, will result in major reforms for the private rental sector under the Renters’ Rights Act. The legislation introduces the abolition of ‘no-fault’ evictions under Section 21, as well as a move towards periodic (or ‘rolling’) tenancies, whereby tenants can provide two months’ notice to terminate their tenancy.
It will also introduce new statutory rules around rent increases, which will be capped at once per year. Rental ‘bidding wars’ will also be banned. Landlords will no longer be allowed to reject applications solely because a prospective tenant has children, pets, or is in receipt of DSS.
Helix Law Supports Landlords During the Transition
At Helix Law, our expert property litigation team works with landlords to regain possession of property across England and Wales. From reviewing tenancy documents to organising bailiffs, we manage every phase of the eviction process.
Sign up for updates on the Renters’ Rights Act, and learn more about the new legislation and what it means for landlords.
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