Provisions of the Renters’ Rights Act (“the Act”) will come into force for landlords of the private rented sector on 1 May 2026. The introduction of the legislation is delayed for registered providers of social housing for whom provisions are expected to come in force late 2026 at the earliest.
Social housing providers should however be mindful that not all their tenancies may benefit from this delayed implementation period. Properties of social housing providers which are let as private market rent tenancies will also be subject to the new legislative provisions as of 1 May 2026.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (“the MHCLG”) has on 20 March 2026 published illustrative versions of the incoming Section 8 Notice of Seeking Possession and form for revision of rent. These forms are presently watermarked, with usable versions anticipated to be released on 1 May 2026.
The MHCLG has also released The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026. This is a document containing guidance for tenants and advising as to changes which may affect them following the implantation of the Act. Crucially, the Information Sheet must be provided to all tenants holding an assured or assured shorthold tenancy commencing prior to 1 May 2026, and which has a wholly partially written record of terms (which would include a written tenancy agreement). Landlords must ensure that eligible tenants are provided with the Information Sheet by 31 May 2026 or else they may face fines of up to £7,000. This specific Information Sheet should be provided to every such named tenant and be provided either via hard copy or electronically via PDF attachment to email or text; it will not be satisfactory to email or text a link to the form in the alternative.
Social landlords must therefore ensure that the Information Sheet is served as required on tenants letting a non-social tenancy.
The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet can be located via : The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026
For guidance on any aspects of the provisions of the Renters’ Rights Act, please contact our expert social housing solicitors.