New Laws Give Renters Better Housing Security

England has introduced new rental laws that give tenants greater security, stronger protections against eviction, and improved rights over rent increases and pet ownership.

“The Renters’ Rights Act aims to give more stability and security to the 11 million people who rent from private landlords,” the UK government said, describing the reforms as the biggest change to renting rules in England in more than 30 years.

From May 2026, fixed-term tenancy agreements in England have been replaced with rolling contracts, allowing tenants to stay in their homes indefinitely unless landlords provide a valid legal reason for eviction. Landlords must now give four months’ notice in most cases, while bidding wars on rent have been banned and rent increases limited to once a year. The legislation also makes it illegal to discriminate against tenants with children or those receiving benefits, introduces stronger rights for pet owners, and imposes fines of up to £40,000 on landlords who repeatedly breach the rules.