A Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act for Landlords and Tenants and How Hudsons Property Can Help
A Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act for Landlords and Tenants and How Hudsons Property Can Help
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces some of the most significant reforms to the private rented sector in many years. The following guidance is based on the current Bill, which is due to come into effect on 1 May 2026, although some elements are still awaiting confirmed implementation dates from the government. At Hudsons Property, we believe that clear information and experienced advice make all the difference, especially in a market as varied and fast paced as the West End.
Below, we outline each key proposal together with how we at Hudsons Property can help you prepare for the changes ahead.
A New Approach to Tenancy Security
The Act proposes to abolish Section 21 notices and move most tenancies onto a periodic structure. Tenants will gain greater security, while landlords will still be able to regain possession when a valid ground applies. This creates a clearer and more transparent system that removes uncertainty for both sides.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We can review your tenancy agreements, update documentation and ensure full compliance with the new structure as the 2026 deadline approaches. For tenants, we provide clear explanations of how periodic tenancies work and what increased security means for your home.
Fairer and More Balanced Possession Grounds
Updated possession grounds are intended to balance stronger protection for tenants with the ability for landlords to regain possession for reasons such as selling, moving in or addressing significant breaches. Safeguards will help prevent misuse once the Act is in place.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We will guide landlords through each ground, help prepare notices correctly and ensure all steps follow the new legal requirements. For tenants, we offer reassurance by explaining what each notice means and how the process works in practice.
Protection Against Backdoor Evictions
Tenants will have stronger protection against rent increases designed purely to encourage them to leave. Landlords may still increase rents to market levels, although excessive rises could be challenged before an independent tribunal.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We support landlords with precise and evidence based rental valuations that reflect West End market conditions, helping you make fair and reasonable adjustments. For tenants, we provide guidance on managing rent review discussions and understanding tribunal processes.
Independent Private Rented Sector Ombudsman
A new ombudsman will offer tenants a free and binding route for complaints. This is designed to bring consistency across the sector and promote transparent, early resolution of issues.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We already operate within robust professional standards. We can advise landlords on how the ombudsman will sit alongside existing redress schemes and help tenants understand how to raise concerns constructively.
National Landlord Database
A new landlord registration database aims to improve transparency and support local authority enforcement once in force.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We can manage the registration process on your behalf, ensuring your information is complete and compliant as soon as the database goes live. Our management team maintains records professionally so that compliance remains seamless.
Tenants’ Right to Request Pets
The Act will give tenants the right to request a pet, with landlords only able to refuse where a reasonable ground exists. This measure is expected to roll out alongside the broader 2026 reforms, although specific timings may be clarified later.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We can help landlords create fair and well-structured pet policies that protect the property while remaining open to reasonable requests. For tenants, we assist with preparing pet requests in a clear and supportive way.
The Decent Homes Standard
For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard will apply to private rented homes. The government has yet to confirm the exact rollout timeline, although the intention is to raise minimum property standards across the sector.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We assess your property against the standard and recommend improvement plans where required. Our trusted West End contractors help ensure any works are completed professionally and efficiently.
Awaab’s Law Requirements
Landlords will be required to investigate and resolve serious hazards such as damp or mould within specific timeframes. The implementation schedule is expected to be confirmed in stages.
How Hudsons Property can help:
Our team coordinates investigations and repairs with speed and care. We ensure deadlines are met, communication remains clear, and tenants feel fully supported throughout.
Protection Against Discrimination
It will become unlawful to refuse tenants purely because they receive benefits or have children. This protection is intended to apply across the sector once the Act is live.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We help landlords adopt inclusive and compliant letting criteria. We also guide tenants through the application process to ensure a fair and transparent experience for everyone involved.
Ban on Rental Bidding
Landlords and agents will no longer be allowed to invite or accept offers above the advertised rent. The published asking rent must be used consistently.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We set accurate asking rents through detailed market research and ensure all enquiries are managed transparently. Tenants can rely on clear communication and consistent pricing throughout the process.
Strengthened Enforcement and Rent Repayment Orders
Local authorities will gain wider investigatory powers and increased penalties for serious noncompliance. Repeat offending landlords may face stricter sanctions.
How Hudsons Property can help:
We maintain full compliance on behalf of landlords, covering documentation, safety checks, and record keeping. Our experienced management team helps protect your investment and peace of mind.
Supporting Landlords and Tenants Across the West End
The Renters’ Rights Act will reshape the private rented sector from May 2026 onwards. Although some areas still await final timings, our commitment remains consistent. We at Hudsons Property will provide clear guidance, transparent communication and trusted support as every part of the new system comes into place. Get in touch if you would like some more information or assistance.
