Your rights

9 rights every tenant in England now has.

The Renters' Rights Act 2026 is in force. These protections apply to you right now — in plain English, with no legal jargon. Share any right directly with a link.

No-fault evictions are abolished

Your landlord can no longer evict you without giving a legal reason. Section 21 'no-fault' evictions are gone.

Rent can only rise once every 12 months

Your landlord cannot raise your rent more than once every 12 months, and must give at least 2 months' written notice using the official form.

Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse pets

Blanket 'no pets' clauses are now unenforceable. Your landlord must have a genuine reason to refuse a written request to keep a pet.

Landlords cannot demand excessive upfront rent

Demanding more than one month's rent in advance at the start of a tenancy is now illegal — regardless of your credit history or circumstances.

Refusing tenants on benefits is a criminal offence

'No DSS' policies are now a criminal offence. Landlords and agents cannot refuse a tenancy solely because an applicant receives Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.

Free access to the PRS Ombudsman

Every private landlord must register with the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman. If they break the rules, you can escalate for free.

Your deposit must be legally protected

Your landlord must place your deposit in a government-approved protection scheme within 30 days and give you the prescribed information about it.

Your home must meet the Decent Homes Standard

For the first time, private landlords must ensure their properties meet the Decent Homes Standard — the same standard that applies to social housing.

Rental bidding wars are banned

Landlords and agents cannot invite or accept offers above the advertised rent. The asking price is the maximum — not the starting point.

These rights only work if you use them. Start with the free tools.

Tenant tools Landlord checker