The Renters Rights Act 2025 introduces major reforms that reshape how landlords will manage their properties. These changes aim to provide clarity and consistency across the rental sector while strengthening standards and tenant protections. The first phase will come into force on 1 May 2026, with further elements following later in the year. Stay informed. Stay compliant. Stay protected.
What landlords need to know:
- Open-ended tenancies: Fixed-term ASTs will be replaced with periodic tenancies. Tenants will give two months’ notice.
- End of Section 21 evictions: Landlords must rely on updated Section 8 grounds, such as selling, moving in, rent arrears, or anti-social behaviour.
- Rent and offers: Rent increases limited to once per year with a formal process; overbidding is no longer allowed.
- Tenant rights: No blanket bans on pets; discrimination based on income or family status is prohibited.
- Property standards & compliance: All properties must meet the Decent Homes Standard. Landlords must join the Ombudsman scheme and register their properties on a national portal.
- Enforcement: Local councils will have stronger powers and penalties for non-compliance.
Prepare early to stay compliant and protect your investment. Our team can guide landlords in Kensington & Chelsea through these changes efficiently.
Preparing Now: What Landlords Should Do
With the first phase of the Renters Rights Act taking effect on 1 May 2026, now is the time for Kensington and Chelsea landlords to begin preparing. Early action will ensure you stay compliant, avoid last minute challenges and protect both your investment and your tenants.
Key steps landlords should take:
- Review tenancy agreements: Ensure contracts are ready for the shift to open-ended periodic tenancies.
- Audit properties: Address any outstanding repairs, safety checks, or hazards.
- Set up maintenance schedules: Plan regular inspections and preventative works to keep properties in top condition.
- Understand Section 8 grounds: Familiarize yourself with the updated legal reasons for possession.
- Reassess rent strategies: Plan for annual rent reviews in line with the new rules.
- Update compliance documents: Keep gas safety, electrical, and energy certificates current for the introduction of the national Property Portal.
By staying informed through the latest government guidance and our detailed compliance article on the Renters Rights Act, landlords can navigate these changes with confidence, ensuring full compliance and complete peace of mind with the support of an experienced and regulated agent. Click here for our Compliance Table.
Why Choose tlc Estate Agents
At tlc Estate Agents, we specialise exclusively in Kensington and Chelsea, drawing on more than 50 years of local knowledge to deliver unmatched expertise in one of London’s most competitive and highly regulated markets. We are fully regulated, with compliance at the centre of everything we do, ensuring our landlords remain legally secure as the sector prepares for the Renters Rights Act.
Our approach focuses on:
- Protecting rental income and safeguarding property values
- Minimising risk through thorough processes and proactive management
- Boutique, personalised service with a dedicated expert who knows both you and your property
How we maximise returns:
- Providing accurate property valuations to set the right rental price
- Conducting rigorous tenant vetting for reliable, long-term tenants
- Offering proactive property management to maintain consistent rental income
Recognised locally and consistently highly rated by our clients, we are proud of a trusted reputation built on professionalism, care and measurable results. As landlord responsibilities increase, our role is to keep you compliant, protected and ahead of every change.
