With just one month to go until the first phase of the Renters Rights Act (RRA) is implemented, Propertymark has issued a guide for agents.
The trade group says the legislation represents one of the most significant overhauls of the private rented sector in England in a generation and will be introduced in three phases from May 1.
A statement from Propertymark says: “Preparation is critical.
“Robust record-keeping, clear communication, and early action will be essential during the transition.
“The UK Government has published a ‘Renters Rights Act Information Sheet 2026’, which must be provided to all named tenants by 31 May 2026.
“This must be delivered either as a physical copy or electronically (for example, via email); simply sharing a web link will not meet the legal requirement.”
Propertymark has also launched a new Assured Periodic Tenancy Agreement (APT) for members ahead of the 1 May 2026 implementation.
This agreement reflects the legislative changes introduced by the Renters Rights Act and supports agents in issuing compliant contracts.
The first phase will include the abolition of Section 21 evictions, meaning landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid legal reason.
Any Section 21 notice issued before 1 May 2026 will remain valid; however, court proceedings must be initiated by 31 July 2026.
All tenancies will also transition to a new assured periodic model, ending the use of fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies from 1 May 2026.
Under the new system, tenants will have greater security and can remain in a property indefinitely, provided they comply with the terms of the tenancy.
Tenants will be able to end a tenancy by giving two months’ notice.
In addition, new and more clearly defined grounds for possession will be introduced.
Landlords will only be able to regain possession under specific circumstances, such as serious rent arrears, if they intend to sell the property, or if they or a family member wish to move in.
Between 1 May and 30 July 2026, student landlords will be able to use Ground 4A to give two months’ notice to regain possession.
This transitional measure is intended to support the student lettings cycle ahead of the 2026/27 academic year.
Other key elements of the legislation include limiting rent increases to once per year, a ban on rental bidding, and strengthened protections against discrimination.
Local authorities will also have enhanced powers to investigate and enforce compliance, including the ability to issue financial penalties where landlords or agents fail to meet their obligations.
Propertymark agents can log in here to access the APT as well as a Ground 4a template letter notifying student tenants that the landlord intends to regain possession, ready for the next academic year.
Plus, a comprehensive Renters’ Rights Act 2025 Checklist, with key dates, actions, and resources for agents as the sector transitions to the new regime.
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, comments: “Propertymark continues to support its members through online resources, guidance documents, webinars, and ongoing engagement with the UK Government to ensure the sector is well prepared as implementation progresses.”
What else can letting agents do in the meantime?
The trade says it’s vital that agents audit their tenancy portfolios to identify affected agreements.
Processes should be in place to issue the Information Sheet correctly and promptly, staff should be trained on compliant delivery methods, and preparations should be made for wider documentation changes ahead of May 2026.
What support is available?
Propertymark provides practical guidance, webinars, and resources to help agents understand the new legislation and prepare with confidence.
Propertymark will host a webinar on the Renters’ Rights Act on Monday, 13 April, providing the latest updates as implementation approaches.
To register, visit: Renters’ Rights Act — Final Preparations | Propertymark
Members can also access a dedicated toolkit: Renters’ Rights Act 2025 Toolkit | Propertymark
