Interactive tool
Am I protected by the Renters' Rights Act?
Answer 4 questions and find out exactly which protections under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 apply to your tenancy — and what your landlord can no longer do to you from 1 May 2026.
What type of tenancy do you have?
The type of tenancy is usually stated at the top of your tenancy agreement. If you're not sure, select 'I'm not sure'.
Frequently asked questions
Who does the Renters' Rights Act 2025 protect?
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 applies to private renters in England who hold an assured or assured shorthold tenancy (AST). It does not apply to Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland, which have their own housing laws.
When did the Renters' Rights Act come into force?
The core provisions of the Renters' Rights Act — including the abolition of Section 21, the conversion of fixed-term tenancies to periodic tenancies, and new rent increase rules — came into force on 1 May 2026.
Can my landlord still evict me after 1 May 2026?
Yes, but only using a Section 8 notice with one of the specific legal grounds for possession set out in the Act. Grounds include rent arrears, breach of tenancy, the landlord wishing to sell, or the landlord or a close family member wishing to move in. Section 21 no-fault evictions are abolished.
What happens to my fixed-term tenancy?
Under the Renters' Rights Act, all fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies automatically convert to periodic tenancies on 1 May 2026. This means your tenancy rolls on month-to-month (or week-to-week, depending on your rent payment period). Your landlord cannot force you to leave simply because a fixed term has ended.
What are the new rules on rent increases?
Landlords must use the official Form 4A (a Section 13 notice) to propose a rent increase and give at least 2 months' written notice. Only one increase is permitted every 12 months. You can refer any proposed increase to the First-tier Tribunal, which will set the rent at the open market rate — and cannot award more than the landlord originally proposed.
What is the new private rented sector Ombudsman?
All private landlords in England are now required to register with the Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman. If you have a complaint about your landlord's conduct — such as failure to make repairs, harassment, or unlawful charges — you can escalate it to the Ombudsman for a free, binding resolution.