The Government has now confirmed how the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 will be introduced and it’s one of the biggest overhauls the private rented sector has seen in years.
From May 2026, new tenancy laws, compliance standards, and accountability measures will begin rolling out in stages. For landlords across Cheadle, Gatley and the wider Stockport area, this means it’s time to prepare, but not panic.
At Maurice Kilbride our job is to keep you one step ahead, ensuring your tenancies, processes, and paperwork stay compliant throughout the transition and beyond.
The first major milestone comes on 1st May 2026, when the new tenancy regime officially begins.
Here’s what changes at that point:
Goodbye fixed term tenancies. Every tenancy will move to a rolling periodic agreement as standard.
No more ‘no-fault’ evictions. Section 21 notices will be scrapped — possession will only be possible under specific legal grounds including selling the property or moving back in.
Rent can only increase once per year, with clear notice procedures to follow.
Rental bidding and discrimination bans. Landlords won’t be able to invite rent bids above the advertised price or refuse tenants because of benefits or family circumstances.
To help tenants understand the new framework, landlords will need to issue an official Government information leaflet to existing renters within a month of the law taking effect. (Don’t worry we’ll provide the approved version for all our landlords.)
You won’t need to reissue new tenancy agreements for existing tenancies, but all new tenancies from May 2026 onward will use a new format that reflects the updated legal requirements.
If you’re considering serving notice under Section 21, there’s still a short window. Notices can be served up until 1st May 2026, but any resulting possession claims must reach the court by 31st July 2026.
After that, Section 21 disappears completely — and landlords will need to rely on grounds-based possession instead.
If this affects you, speak with us soon so we can review your position and guide you through the correct legal steps.
With rent increases capped to once per year, landlords should take the opportunity to review their portfolio now.
Consider:
Whether your current rents reflect market conditions.
How upcoming compliance and maintenance standards may impact costs.
The importance of keeping turnover low with quality, long-term tenants.
We’re helping our landlords carry out strategic rent reviews before the new system takes effect, ensuring your yields remain strong and sustainable.
Getting ahead now will make next year much smoother. We recommend:
Checking your current tenancies and documentation.
Making sure all safety certificates and maintenance records are up to date.
Reviewing your rent schedules and tenancy renewal dates.
Confirming that your letting agent (if applicable) is updating systems and processes for the new rules.
Scheduling a compliance review or refresher session with our lettings team.
The second phase will introduce two key initiatives:
A Private Rented Sector Database to register all landlords and their properties. There is likely to be a cost for this, but further details are awaited.
A new Landlord Ombudsman to handle disputes fairly and efficiently, without court delays or legal costs.
Both measures are designed to make the sector more transparent and professional — something that responsible landlords will welcome.
The final phase, likely in 2027, will focus on improving property conditions across the private sector.
It will extend Awaab’s Law (ensuring damp and mould issues are tackled quickly) and introduce a modernised Decent Homes Standard for rental properties.
This is all about protecting tenants, but it also benefits proactive landlords — maintaining safe, high quality homes supports stable, long term tenancies.
The new legislation represents a significant change, but with clear timelines and expert support, there’s no need for concern.
At Maurice Kilbride, we’re already helping landlords:
✅ Audit portfolios for compliance and profitability.
✅ Update tenancy documentation and rent review processes.
✅ Prepare for the May 2026 transition with confidence.
By staying proactive now, you’ll protect your income, your reputation, and your peace of mind later.
If you’re a landlord in Cheadle, Gatley, or Stockport and want to understand what the new rules mean for you, we’re here to help. Why not contact us on📞 0161 428 3663 or 💌 lettings@mkiea.co.uk
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