Renters' Rights in London
Understand the key changes from the Renters' Rights Act, what they mean for private renters, and where to get support.
Know your rights when renting in London
London has the highest total number of private renters in the UK, and many face insecurity, rising costs and limited awareness of their rights. In 2025, the Government passed the Renters' Rights Act, introducing the biggest reforms to private renting in a generation.
The Mayor of London has long campaigned for stronger protections for people who rent. In light of the changes, a new 'Renters' Rights Enforcement Fund' has been launched to help London's renters understand their new rights. This new fund from City Hall will also support renters’ groups such as renters unions and fund training for borough enforcement officers who will help to hold rogue landlords to account.
From 1 May 2026, new rules will begin to come into force, giving renters more security in their homes, fairer treatment and stronger protection. If you are renting in London, it’s important to be aware of these new rules and what they mean for you.
On this page you can find out:
- what new renters' rights are being introduced
- when the changes will start to come into force
- what the new rules mean for you in practice
- where to get help if you are worried about eviction, rent increase or unfair treatment.
What's changing?
The following changes apply to private renters starting from 1 May 2026.
Protection from unfair eviction
Landlords can no longer evict renters without a valid reason.
No fault (section 21) evictions are being abolished. All tenancies will be open ended from day one, meaning they roll on unless a landlord has a legitimate reason to regain possession or you decide to leave.
What this means for you:
- You cannot be asked to leave without a valid reason.
- Any eviction must follow the correct legal process.
Open ended tenancies
Your tenancy does not end automatically.
From the start of your tenancy, agreements will be open ended rather than fixed term.
What this means for you:
- You do not need to renegotiate or move when a fixed term ends.
- You can stay in your home unless there are grounds for possession.
Clearer rules apply when landlords want their property back
Stricter rules apply when landlords want their property back.
Landlords can only regain possession for specific reasons, such as selling the property or moving in. They can also gain possession if you do not pay the rent or meet the conditions of your tenancy. They must give proper notice and meet stricter conditions, and properties cannot be re let for a period to prevent abuse.
What this means for you:
- You should be told clearly why a landlord wants possession
- Eviction for these reasons cannot be misused
Fairer rent increases
Rent increases are limited and can be challenged.
Rents can only be increased once per year using the correct legal notice, with a minimum notice period. If you believe a proposed increase is excessive, you can challenge it through the tribunal process.
What this means for you:
- You should receive proper notice of any increase.
- You have the right to challenge unfair rent rises.
No more discrimination in renting
Renters must be treated fairly.
Landlords are prohibited from discriminating against renters because they have children, pets or receive benefits. Blanket bans in adverts or letting decisions are not allowed.
What this means for you:
- You should be considered fairly when applying for a home.
- Keep evidence if you think you have been treated unfairly.
Pets
Pets must be considered fairly.
Landlords must consider requests to keep a pet and can only refuse if they have a valid reason.
What this means for you:
- You can request permission to keep a pet.
- Refusals must be reasonable and justified.
No more rental bidding wars or large upfront rent demands
Renters should know what rent they are agreeing to.
Landlords and agents cannot invite or accept offers above the advertised rent. They can only request up to one month’s rent in advance once a tenancy is agreed.
What this means for you:
- The advertised rent should be the rent you will pay.
- You should not be pressured into bidding higher.
Resolving issues and disputes
Clearer routes to raise concerns.
A Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will provide a free, independent way to resolve disputes without going to court, this will be available for tenants to use from late 2026.
What this means for you:
- You will have a route to complain and seek resolution.
- Issues may be resolved more quickly and fairly.
Stronger enforcement against rogue landlords
Action can be taken against serious breaches.
Local councils have stronger powers to investigate breaches, issue penalties and recover rent where rules are broken. A new landlord database, which will be live from late 2026, will support enforcement activity by requiring landlords to upload and maintain their contact details, property details and safety information – all of which will be accessible to the public.
What this means for you:
- Rogue practice can be challenged.
- Councils have more tools to act.
Need help now?
If you're worried about eviction, rent increases or unfair treatment, get advice early.
Private renting guidance and supportIf you're experiencing problems with your private landlord or letting agent, or you’re new to renting, follow our three step process to inform and protect yourself.
If you’re struggling to keep up with your rent payments, you might be able to get benefits or grants to help you with your rent.
Read our information and guidance for renters, and access help and support in case of problems with your landlord.
This page summarises key provisions of the Renters Rights Act 2025 and related policy guidance. It is intended as public information and does not replace legal advice.