In a major step toward implementation of the Renters Rights Act, the government has published 24 detailed guidance documents covering key aspects of the legislation. The materials were released late last week, shortly after confirming that phase one of the Act will come into force on 1 May 2026.

From that date, all private tenancies in England—both new and existing—will transition to the new legal framework. Assured shorthold tenancies will automatically convert to the updated system, while any tenancy agreements signed on or after 1 May must comply with the revised rules.

The first phase introduces significant reforms, including a cap on rent in advance, a ban on rental bidding, and new procedures for rent increases and pet requests. The published guides aim to support landlords, tenants, and local authorities in preparing for the changes.

Section 21 notices can only be served before 1 May 2026 only used to apply to court before 31 July 2026 - note valid application to court means case file opened so allow the courts a minimum two weeks to open the case - if you post before the 31 July and they don’t process then your application will be dismissed

Under the Renters Rights Act, all new tenancies must include a written agreement containing specific information that will be defined through secondary legislation.

Landlords will not be required to amend or reissue existing written tenancy agreements. However, they must provide tenants with a government-issued information sheet outlining how the new rules affect their tenancy.

For tenancies without a written agreement—such as those based on verbal arrangements or protected tenancies—landlords will need to supply a written document that includes the required information set out in the legislation.

The publication of 24 separate guidance documents underscores the complexity of the Renters Rights Act’s first phase. Further reforms are expected in the second half of next year, when phase two will outline the structure of the mandatory Landlord Ombudsman scheme and introduce the new national database for the private rented sector.

The guides cover:

Landlords’ overview;

Tenancy agreements overview;

Types of Tenancy;

Rents Bidding;

Discrimination of Rental;

Proposed Tenants With Children;

If Anticipated Tenants Are On Benefits;

If A Person Reports You For Rental Discrimination;

Rent Deposits and Payments;

Tenancy Fees That Can Be Charged; 

Rent Increases;

How To Handle Anti-Social Behaviour;

Tenants Wish To Keep Pets;

Finishing a Tenancy;

Undertaking Issues With Tenants;

Deal With Tenants Who Want To Leave;

Evicting Tenants;

Providing Eviction Notices;

Giving Notice Before May 1st 2026;

Procedures to Re-Possess Your Privately Rented Property after May 1 2026;:

Regular Possession Claims;

Possession hearings and orders;

It Tenants Do Not Obey Possession Orders;

Enforcement measures for landlords.