England · private renting
What the Act means for tenants
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 changed how private renting works in England. Part 1 came into force on 1 May 2026. The information below is a general summary for tenants. It is not legal advice and does not cover every situation, including social housing tenancies which often follow different rules.
This information is for general guidance only. It is not legal advice and it does not confirm that you have a claim. Whether a claim may proceed depends on the individual facts and applicable law. Independent legal advice should be sought where needed.
Section 21 “no-fault” evictions were abolished in England from 1 May 2026. Private landlords generally now need a valid legal ground to seek possession.
This does not mean tenants can never be evicted. Different possession grounds can still apply, for example in relation to rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or a landlord needing the property back for a permitted reason. Court process still applies. This is not a guarantee against eviction, and seeking repairs or raising a complaint does not by itself prevent a landlord from using a valid legal ground.
Key points for tenants
- Section 21 “no-fault” evictions were abolished in England from 1 May 2026. Private landlords generally now need a valid legal ground to seek possession.
- Private landlords generally need a valid legal ground to seek possession, usually by serving a section 8 notice and, if necessary, applying to the court.
- This does not mean tenants can never be evicted. Different possession grounds can still apply, for example in relation to rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or a landlord needing the property back for a permitted reason. Court process still applies. This is not a guarantee against eviction, and seeking repairs or raising a complaint does not by itself prevent a landlord from using a valid legal ground.
- Assured shorthold tenancies have, in general terms, moved onto a periodic tenancy model. Fixed-term “no-fault” endings via section 21 are no longer the route for new possession claims.
- Rules on rent increases, bidding wars and other tenant protections also form part of the wider Act. Check GOV.UK or seek advice for the current position on your tenancy type.
Common questions
Worried about complaining to your landlord?
Many tenants worry that asking for repairs will put their home at risk. Landlords still have legal duties to keep rented homes in repair and fit to live in. The abolition of section 21 in England means private landlords generally cannot seek possession without a valid legal ground. That is not the same as a promise that a tenant can never be evicted, and it is not a substitute for advice on your own circumstances.
Can my landlord evict me for reporting repairs?
Reporting repairs is a normal part of a tenancy. There is no lawful “no-fault” section 21 process in England from 1 May 2026. A landlord who wants possession generally needs a valid ground and usually a court order if you do not leave. Retaliatory or improper use of possession grounds may be challengeable, but that depends on the facts. If you are facing notice or court action, get advice promptly from a solicitor, Shelter, Citizens Advice or your local council.
What happens if I complain about damp or mould?
You should report damp and mould to your landlord in writing where possible and keep copies. Social landlords in England also have specific Awaab’s Law duties for emergency hazards and significant damp and mould. Private landlords still have repair and fitness-for-habitation duties. Complaining does not automatically create a claim, and it does not automatically stop a possession claim that is based on a valid ground.
What should I do if repairs are being ignored?
Keep a clear record: dates, how you reported the problem, any reference numbers, photos and the landlord’s response. Follow up in writing. For serious hazards you can also contact your local council’s environmental health team. Social housing tenants can use the landlord’s complaints process and the Housing Ombudsman. Never Claimed can review whether your circumstances may warrant further assessment — that is not a finding that you have a claim.