Are you Renters’ Rights Act ready?
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is the biggest shake-up to renting in decades — and it puts your record-keeping front and centre. Run through the checklist below. If any of it makes you uneasy, you’re not alone — and it’s fixable in an afternoon.
Your readiness checklist
Your tenancies are now periodic
Since 1 May 2026 all assured shorthold tenancies are periodic (rolling) — there are no more fixed terms. Make sure your paperwork and expectations reflect this.
Section 21 is gone — Section 8 is your only route
No-fault evictions ended. To regain possession you now need a valid Section 8 ground, the correct notice period, and — crucially — proof you met your legal obligations.
You can prove every required document was delivered
EPC, Gas Safety Certificate (CP12), EICR, the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet (which replaced the How to Rent guide on 1 May 2026) and deposit prescribed information. If you can’t prove delivery, a possession claim can be blocked.
Your certificates are current and tracked
Gas safety annually, EICR every five years, EPC valid (minimum band E now, band C from 1 October 2030). A missed renewal weakens your position and risks penalties.
You can respond to pet requests in time
Tenants can request a pet, and you must respond in writing within 28 days. Miss the deadline and consent is treated as given.
Your rent increases follow the new process
One increase per year, two months’ notice, via the updated Section 13 (Form 4A) process. The tribunal can confirm or reduce a proposed rent, but never increase it.
Your records would stand up to scrutiny
Councils now have a duty to investigate breaches, with civil penalties up to £7,000 for a first breach and £40,000 for serious or repeated ones. Organised, timestamped records are your best protection.
How HouseFile keeps you ready
HouseFile is a digital house file for each of your properties. Store every compliance document in one place, share it with tenants through a simple link, and get a timestamped record every time they open it — the exact proof the new rules reward.
- → Compliance status at a glance — red / amber / green per property
- → Automatic reminders before certificates expire
- → Timestamped proof your tenants received every document
- → The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet, ready to share
This page is general information, not legal advice. Always check current legislation or speak to a solicitor about your specific situation. See our full Renters’ Rights Act guide for detail.