From 1 May 2026, new laws have come into force that change how renting works across England.
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces new rights and responsibilities for landlords, letting agents and tenants - creating a fairer, more secure private rented sector.
Key changes include the end of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, limits on rent increases, and the move from fixed-term to rolling tenancies.
The Act also creates a fairer system for landlords, with clearer, legally valid reasons to regain possession of their property - including rent arrears and anti-social behaviour.
Your questions answered
Want to know how the changes affect eviction rules, rent increases, tenancies, pets and your rights as a tenant?
Our FAQs explain what the new law means in practice.
Key measures include:
- Abolition of no-fault evictions and fairer possession grounds
- Introduction of a Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Ombudsman
- Creation of a PRS database
- Strengthened rights for tenants to request pets
- Application of the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law
- Protection against discrimination for families and those receiving benefits
What this means for landlords
As a landlord, you must comply with the new legal requirements, including using valid grounds for possession and ensuring your property is safe and meets required standards.
These reforms are designed to support responsible landlords while improving conditions for tenants.
- According to data in the Government’s English Housing Survey, there are approximately 225,000 households in private rented accommodation in the region
- 25.4% of privately rented properties in the West Midlands are non-decent
- This means that more than 1 in 4 privately rented properties in the region do not meet the Decent Homes Standard – the basic requirements the government sets for what counts as a decent, healthy home
The Mayor of West Midlands is supporting Local Authorities with an apprenticeship programme to develop the next generation of housing inspection and enforcement officers.
We are funding a regional cohort of 15 apprentices, who will be based in local authorities across the West Midlands.
This cohort provides local authorities with further capacity and resources as they implement the Renters Rights Act.
If you are a landlord you could also be eligible for up to 70% of the cost of retrofitting your property to make it more energy efficient and comfortable for tenants. This can involve the installation of modern loft, cavity and external wall insulation, high energy storage heaters, hot water cylinder insulation and thermostats, solar panels and ventilation measures.
To find out if you're eligible, visit our Warmer Home Grants webpage.
For full details on the Renters’ Rights Act, including all changes to private renting, visit the GOV.UK overview page.
You can also contact your local council for advice and support on renting in your area.
Training Resources
A selection of training resources will be available for those who would like to learn more about the new Renters Rights Act.
Warm Home Grants
Cover 70% of costs to make your rented properties warmer.
Renters’ Rights Act FAQs
Get clear answers to the most common questions - from rent increases and evictions to what the changes mean for you.