Renters' Rights Act 2025 timeline and key dates for landlords
A timeline of the main milestones landlords should watch for the Renters' Rights Act 2025.
7 min read · Updated 23 August 2026
Overview
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent in October 2025. Most provisions are expected to come into force in 2026. This timeline sets out the main milestones landlords should watch.
Royal Assent and commencement
The Act became law in October 2025. The government has signalled that the main provisions will commence in 2026, with secondary regulations and guidance following before the new rules take effect.
End of Section 21 no fault evictions
No fault evictions under Section 21 will be abolished when the relevant provisions commence. Landlords will need to use the reformed Section 8 grounds and provide evidence of the reason for possession.
New landlord ombudsman scheme
A landlord ombudsman will be created to resolve tenant complaints. Membership will be mandatory for most private landlords and letting agents. Landlords should register once the scheme opens.
Decent Homes Standard for the private rented sector
A new Decent Homes Standard will set a minimum condition floor for privately rented homes. Landlords will need to meet the standard and respond to hazards within set timescales.
Awaab's Law hazard timescales
Awaab's Law will introduce emergency, urgent and non urgent repair timescales for certain hazards. Landlords must start investigating within hours for emergencies and complete repairs within 14 days for urgent cases.
Periodic tenancy only
New tenancies will be open ended assured periodic tenancies from the start. Existing fixed term assured shorthold tenancies will convert to periodic tenancies when the provisions commence.
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This guide is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.