Cheltenham-based Willans LLP solicitors is helping landlords prepare for the new Renters' Rights Act with a free specialist seminar this March 2026.
The Renters' Rights Bill received Royal Assent in October 2025 – becoming the Renters' Right Act 2025 – and is set to bring about the biggest shake-up to the private rental sector for nearly 40 years.
The first phase of the new legislation comes into effect on Friday 1 May 2026 and introduces new responsibilities and rules that property owners need to prepare for now.
One of the most transformative aspects of the legislation involves abolishing Section 21 notices, also known as 'no-fault' evictions, so landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid reason – but will have stronger grounds for reposession for legitimate reasons.
Landlords will no longer be able to have blanket bans on tenants who receive benefits or have children, or encourage bidding wars between prospective tenants.
Up-front payments are being capped at one month's rent and rent increases will be limited to once per year, in line with market rates.
The Decent Homes Standard is also being expanded to cover the private rental sector, ensuring properties meet minimum standards for safety, repair and habitability, with local authories having the power to enforce these standards and issue penalties.
Designed for landlords, letting agents, property managers, developers and investors, the Renters' Rights Act seminar provides 'clear, timely, and commercially aware guidance' to help navigate the upcoming changes with confidence from Willans' property dispute specialists, Nick Southwell, Bethen Abraham and Katie Charlton.
Their advice could help landlords adapt now by updating documentation, budgeting for property improvements, training staff on the new legal framework and investing in compliance.
The seminar takes place in-person at DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham-Cotswolds from 4pm to 6pm on Wednesday 18 March 2026.
For more information, see Your essential toolkit – The Renters Rights Act and implementation from Willans LLP solicitors on SoGlos, or to book a free place, visit willans.co.uk.
