BTTJ warning that accidental landlords face same new rental regulations as professional landlords from 1 May

“There is a common myth that it is only if you rent out properties as a business that you will be affected, but this is not true. 

“The UK’s private rental sector is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades, with sweeping changes reshaping how landlords and tenants interact. 

“The intention is to create a fairer, safer and more transparent rental market, but the new law covers any private rental, not just landlords with significant portfolios” he pointed out. 

It is estimated there are around 11 million renters in the UK, and the new Act aims to increase tenant security and applies to all private landlords, regardless of how they acquired the property. 

Martin Large added: “For years, renters have faced insecurity, sudden evictions, and poor housing standards. The new legislation addresses these issues head-on, balancing tenant protections with clear rules for landlords. It’s not just a tweak—it’s a complete overhaul of tenancy law.” 

The changes include the end of “No fault evictions”, the replacement of the traditional Assured Shorthold Tenancy with the Assured Periodic Tenancy. 

Rent increases are limited to once a year, and landlords must give two months’ notice before raising the rent. 

Mr Large said: “Where believe the proposed rental increase is unfair, they can challenge this through the First-Tier Tribunal.” 

He pointed out another area that might catch out “accidental landlords”. 

“The Decent Homes Standard, previously for social housing, now extends to private rentals. All properties must meet minimum safety, repair, and energy efficiency benchmarks.” 

There are potential fines of up to £40,000 for serious breaches of the Decent Homes Standard. 

The legislation is being implemented on a timetable and later this year the Government will launch the Private Rented Database and Landlord Ombudsman. Joining the database and ombudsman scheme is mandatory for landlords and landlords with multiple properties will need to register each property. There will also be a small fee which is expected to reflect the cost of running the service. 

Mr Large pointed out: “Failure to register for these could lead to a civil penalty being issued by the local authority, a fine of up to £5,000, and the inability to get a possession order, except if possession is sought or tenant anti-social behaviour. 

“Whether you are a landlord with many properties, which are managed by letting agents, or someone just letting out your late Mum’s property, the rules apply equally.”