A Keighley estate agent has outlined some of the major impacts to both landlords and tenants as the Renters’ Rights Act is set to come into force.
Set to take effect from May 1, 2026, the reforms will impact landlords and tenants across England, including those in North and West Yorkshire.
The Renters’ Rights Act will outlaw no-fault Section 21 evictions, end fixed-term tenancy contracts in favour of rolling agreements, and limit rent increases to once a year at market rate, with two months’ notice required.
Patrick McCutcheon, head of residential at Keighley estate agent Dacre, Son and Hartley, said: "These significant changes to tenancy laws have been on the horizon for a long time but now we have clarification that from 1 May 2026, all new and existing private tenancies in England will move onto the new system.
"This means we can plan for the changes and work with our landlords and tenants to ensure they abide by the new laws and understand what they mean for them."
"Although the end of Section 21 evictions is a key focal point, it’s important to remember that landlords still have rights to evict for lots of common reasons which include wanting to move into the property themselves, if they decide to sell the property, or if the rent is unpaid, or for antisocial behaviour."
He added: "In late 2026 a database of private rented sector properties will launch, which landlords will have to sign up to.
"This will contain key information to inform tenant choices and help landlords understand their obligations and demonstrate compliance, as well as supporting councils in targeting enforcement.
"During this phase, a Landlord Ombudsman will also be established to improve dispute resolution and help to settle issues between tenants and landlords without costly court proceedings.
“A third phase will then focus on raising standards through the extension of Awaab’s Law and implementing a modernised Decent Homes Standard, which will ensure that all rental properties meet minimum standards of quality and safety.”
To conclude, Mr McCutcheon said: "These changes have been described as the biggest overhaul of tenancy laws for a generation, and the industry now has six months to prepare for them.
"Crucially, landlords must not fall foul of the new laws, and this means using a reputable letting agent that has a thorough understanding of what is required.
"We would urge anyone who is unsure about what the changes mean for them to contact us now."
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