The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is now law. Landlords, letting agents, and anyone acting on their behalf must understand and follow the new rules when they come into force.
Key changes from 1 May 2026
The rules for renting and evictions changed on 1 May 2026. The new rules mean:
- Evictions: Section 21 “no-fault” evictions are now banned.
- Tenancy types: All assured shorthold tenancies have automatically changed to assured tenancies.
- No more fixed-term tenancies: All tenancies are now rolling periodic tenancies.
- Taking back a property: Landlords can only evict tenants using the rules under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988. Tenants must give two months’ notice to leave.
- Rent in advance payments: Landlords can only ask for a maximum of one month’s rent in advance.
- Rent increases: These are limited to one increase each year.
Fines and penalties
The council is responsible for enforcing the Act. Anyone who fails to comply with the law is at risk of financial penalties or criminal prosecution.
For further information, please read the following guidance:
- Assured periodic tenancies: a guide for landlords
- Private renting has changed
- Changes to private renting – get emails from GOV.UK
- Renters’ Rights Act 2025: Implementation roadmap
If you didn’t find the information you need, our dedicated Landlord Liaison team is ready to help landlords and letting agents with general advice.
Contact the Landlord Liaison Team:
- Email: LLO@thanet.gov.uk
- Phone: 01843 577377
- Find further information on support available for landlords and letting agents
For further information, please read the following guidance:
- Renters’ Rights Act overview for tenants
- Private renting has changed
- Renters’ Rights Act: changes for private tenants
Our Private Sector Housing Tenancy Enforcement Team is responsible for enforcing the act. We can investigate any breaches of the new rules.
Here are some examples of situations where we may be able to assist you:
What we can investigate:
Breaches
- Failing to provide a prescribed information sheet detailing changes under the Renters’ Rights Act by 31 May 2026.
- Failing to provide a written tenancy agreement or a written record of the tenancy’s terms by 31 May 2026 (if one does not already exist).
- Failing to specify the proposed rent in an advertisement or property offer.
- Inviting, encouraging, or accepting any rent offer higher than the advertised rate.
- Attempting to let the property on a fixed term.
- Attempting to end the tenancy by serving a notice to quit.
- Serving a possession notice that tries to terminate the tenancy outside of the official Section 8 process.
- Failing to provide prior notice that a ground for possession, which requires it, may be used.
- Reletting or remarketing the property within the 12-month ‘no let’ period after using the moving or selling grounds for possession.
- Relying on a ground for possession when the person does not reasonably believe that the landlord is/will be able to obtain possession.
- Discriminating against tenants or prospective tenants who receive benefits or have children.
Illegal eviction
- Changing the locks while you are away.
- Preventing you from accessing any part of the premises you are entitled to occupy.
- Cutting off essential services, such as the electricity supply, to force you to leave.
- Using physical force to remove you from the property.
Harassment
Landlord or letting agent harassment can include certain or persistent acts of:
- Using violence or threatening language or behaviour.
- Entering your home without your permission.
- Opening, keeping, or interfering with your post.
- Trying to force or pressure you to move out.
- Deliberately cutting off or interfering with your gas, water, or electricity supply.
- Removing or otherwise interfering with your belongings.
- Demanding money from you that you either do not owe or are unable to pay.
We may be able to investigate any tenancy breaches described above. To report any of these issues, please email housing.conditions@thanet.gov.uk.
For further advice and guidance, please visit the Citizens Advice website
If you are homeless or at risk of losing your home, please contact our Housing Options team for advice on your next steps.
PermalinkRenters’ Rights Act – Tenants Drop-in
Are you a private tenant living in Thanet? Your legal rights changed on 1 May 2026 under the new Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
Come and chat with the council’s Private Sector Housing Team to find out:
- How the new laws give you stronger protections.
- What to do if your landlord breaks the new rules.
- How our team can support you with private renting issues.
Event information
- Where? Thanet Council Gateway Plus, Cecil Square, Margate, Kent, CT9 1EU
- When? Monday 22 June 2026, 1pm to 4pm
- What? Informal, drop-in session (no appointment needed)
- Who? Private Sector Housing Team, Thanet District Council