Renters’ Rights Act: What Landlords Need to Know (and Do) Right Now
The Renters’ Rights Act is now in force, and while much of the focus has been on S21 and changes to notices, if you let property in England, this is what you need to know right now.
1). You Must Have Served the Renters’ Rights Information Sheet by 31 May
All landlords are required to provide tenants with the official Renters’ Rights Information Sheet.
Key points:
- Existing tenants must receive it no later than 31 May
- New tenants must receive it at the start of the tenancy
- This applies even if the tenant has lived in the property for years
Why this matters:
Failure to serve the information sheet can affect your ability to rely on legal possession routes and may be used against you in disputes. It needs to be the original document as a PDF or letter – links will not suffice.
Action:
- Check it has been issued
- Keep written proof of service (email or signed acknowledgment)
Download the sheet here
2). You Do NOT Need to Create New Tenancy Agreements
A common misconception about Renters Right Ace is that landlords must replace all tenancy agreements. You don’t.
The law does this automatically:
- All Assured Shorthold Tenancies have converted by law into Assured Periodic Tenancies
- Existing agreements remain valid for most terms (rent, responsibilities, clauses)
- Fixed end dates simply no longer apply
What this means:
- No mass re‑signing exercise needed
- No tenant signature required
- No need to panic‑rewrite agreements
Action:
- Do not issue new agreements unless there’s a genuine reason
- Avoid confusing tenants with unnecessary paperwork
3). You Must Serve a Statement of Terms (If Requested or If No Written Agreement Exists)
While new agreements aren’t required, landlords must provide a ‘Statement of Terms’ in certain circumstances.
You must issue one if:
- The tenant doesn’t have a written tenancy agreement, or
- The tenant formally requests one
The statement must include:
- Rent amount and frequency
- How and when rent can be increased
- Any responsibilities of landlord and tenant
- Basic tenancy details (parties, property address)
Deadline:
Once requested, it must be provided within the required statutory timeframe.
Action:
- Have a compliant statement template ready
- Diarise and respond promptly to requests
The Bottom Line for Landlords
Being a landlord is now more heavily regulated than ever, and keeping on top of constant legislation changes is essential. While the rules may feel overwhelming, the reality is that compliance today is about clear communication, accurate paperwork, and proactive management.
Landlords who stay organised and ahead of the changes will avoid unnecessary disputes, delays, and enforcement action.
If you’d like peace of mind and a truly stress‑free property portfolio, get in touch with Ann Durrell, Managing Director, to discuss how our professional management services take the pressure off – so you can focus on the returns, not the red tape.
0161 543 3406 – ann@maddoxnoel.com