The Renter’s Rights Bill being passed in October is going to be bringing some big changes for students around how tenancies work! The changes are taking affect from May 2026. These are some important insights of what you should know.
The Renter’s Rights Bill being passed in October is going to be bringing some big changes for students around how tenancies work! The changes are taking affect from May 2026. These are some important insights of what you should know.
End of Section 21 Notice & No more fixed term tenancies
There are many positives about this bill being passed. But what does this mean as a student? Most tenants who rent from a private landlord off campus have an ‘assured shorthold tenancy’ or ‘AST’ as their contract. This type of tenancy usually runs for a fixed term of twelve months for the whole academic year. Sometimes there is a 'break clause' in the contract allowing the landlord or the tenant to end the fixed term early.
In an 'assured shorthold tenancy', a landlord can evict the tenants without giving any reason, if the fixed term has ended. They start that process by serving a ‘section 21 notice’ which tells the tenants that the landlord requires the property back after two months. Once the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force in May, Section 21 notices and 'assured shorthold tenancies' will be abolished. Instead, most tenants will have a fully assured tenancy. This means that the landlord must have a reason to evict the tenant. A valid reason would be classed as owing rent or your landlord selling the property. No fault evictions will be no more!
Most importantly, all tenancies will be rolling contracts. This means tenants can decide when they want to end the contract by giving notice to their landlord.
Giving notice if you want to leave your contract early!
You will have a periodic tenancy which makes it easier to leave by giving notice. However, you will still need to give at least 2 months' notice to end a periodic assured tenancy.
New 1 month limit on rent in advance & rent increases
You will get at least 2 months' notice of a rent increase, and your landlord will not be able to ask for more than 1 month's rent in advance. Landlords would only be able to ask for one month’s rent (plus deposit) in advance, which will make renting more affordable for students. Councils will be able to fine landlords who ask for or expect more.
Awaab’s Law
The renters right bill being passed means setting clear legal expectations about the timeframes within which landlords in the private rented sector must take action to make homes safe where they contain serious hazards. Landlords will be required to start repairs according to a specified timetable. Implementation timescales have not yet been confirmed for this yet though!
Also, there will be a new minimum standard for safety and comfort in rented properties. Landlords will face fines if they breach this. There is no confirmed implementation timeline for this either, at the moment though. The government has proposed a long-term deadline of either 2035 or 2037 with the expectation that landlords should start works to meet the new standard earlier.
Ban on Rental Bidding
Landlords and letting agents will no longer be allowed to invite higher ‘bids’ to rent a property. This means an end to the practice of rental bidding by prohibiting landlords and agents from asking for or accepting offers above the advertised rent.
Remember don’t be pressured into signing a new housing contract. The Advice Centre offers a free contract checking service which can save you any doubts you might have before signing your contract. It is best that you do not rush into a contract as this can cause problems down the line. If you take your time and choose your housemates carefully, you’ll be more likely to have a positive living experience and get a better deal.
You can find more information on updates about the renter’s right bill on the following article on Shelter. If you need any information, head down to The Advice Centre based on the first floor of the student union. You can also reach out with any questions by emailing advice@su.rhul.ac.uk or coming into their drop in’s which are every Tuesday 1:30 to 3:30pm.