Worcestershire estate agency offers to help landlords prepare for new private rental law

James Gwynne, lettings manager at Nicol & Co, explained that the new law’s main provisions will start taking effect from May 2026.

 Mr Gwynne said: “This is the biggest change for the UK’s private rental sector in decades, and we’re keen to help landlords get ready. 

“As long as landlords understand the changes, they can prepare and be ready so that their tenancies continue to run smoothly.” 

Mr Gwynne said the changes included the end of “no-fault” or Section 21 evictions, where landlords could remove tenants without giving reasons. 

From May 2026, and landlords need to state valid reasons for evictions under Section 8, such as rent arrears, anti-social behaviour or if the property is needed for occupation by the landlord or family members. 

Landlords will be able to serve a Notice Seeking Possession where tenants fall into arrears of four months’ rent or more, and by giving four weeks’ notice before court proceedings. 

The new law will introduce Assured Periodic Tenancies, which roll on indefinitely, replacing Assured Shorthold Tenancies. Fixed-Term Tenancies will also be phased out. 

Tenants will be allowed to leave with two months’ notice, while landlords can give four months’ notice when there specific legal grounds that are allowed are involved. 

The new law will allow landlords to make one rent increase a year, with two months’ notice. 

Tenants will be allowed to request to keep pets, but landlords can still decline with valid reasons within 28 days of the request. 

The law also extends Decent Homes Standard to private rentals, with new safety, repair and energy efficiency benchmarks. 

The government is also launching the Private Rented Database and Landlord Ombudsman for all landlords to join for a small fee. 

Mr Gwynne added: “The big message from us is that landlords need to plan ahead carefully as these changes place greater responsibility on them staying compliant and up-to-date. This is where we can help.” 

Landlords can book a one-to-one review by emailing lettings@nicolandco.co.uk. Nicol & Co also has a YouTube channel called Behind The Board where landlords can find more tips and advice here.