Overview
- England’s new rules, which took effect Friday, end Section 21 evictions and convert fixed-term tenancies into open-ended rolling agreements.
- Landlords can now raise rent only once a year with at least two months’ written notice, and tenants can challenge increases they believe exceed the open market rate.
- Rental bidding above the advertised price is prohibited, and upfront payments are capped at one month’s rent to cut entry costs for tenants.
- Tenants may request to keep pets and landlords must consider the request reasonably, and ads that exclude people on benefits or families with children are now banned.
- Local councils gain stronger enforcement powers with fines up to £40,000, pre‑May 1 Section 21 cases can continue in court until July 31, and a landlord ombudsman and national database will roll out later in 2026.