New Renters’ Rights Act to Impact Leeds Tenants

Significant changes to tenant protections will take effect from May 2026

Tenants renting property in Leeds and across England and Wales will see changes to their rights under the new Renters’ Rights Act, which is set to come into force on 1 May 2026. The legislation introduces reforms aimed at providing greater security and clarity for those living in the private rented sector.

End of No-Fault Evictions

One of the key changes is the abolition of “Section 21” no-fault evictions. From May 2026, landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without providing a valid reason. This means tenants will have increased security in their homes. However, landlords will still be permitted to evict tenants for specific reasons such as rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, selling the property, or if the landlord or their family intends to live in the property.

Changes for Different Household Types

The Act distinguishes between various types of households and tenancy arrangements:

• Smaller Households and Non-Student Occupants: Tenants living alone, with one other person, or with non-students will benefit from protections against eviction without cause.
• Student Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs): For students living with two or more others, landlords can still end tenancies at the end of the academic year but must provide notice under “Ground 4A.”
• Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): If the accommodation provider is a member of the Unipol Code and the contract was signed before 1 May 2026, PBSA will be treated like HMOs. Contracts signed after this date may allow landlords to offer fixed-term tenancies without the tenant’s right to give two months’ notice to leave. PBSA providers not part of the Unipol Code will be treated as non-student accommodation.

Notice Periods and Ending Tenancies

Tenants wishing to leave at the end of a fixed-term contract must give two months’ notice themselves if the landlord does not provide notice. For example, if a contract ends in June, tenants should give notice by 1 May.

Landlords wanting tenants to leave by the end of July must issue valid notice, either under Ground 4A or a Section 21 notice served before 1 May 2026.

Joint tenancy agreements mean that if one tenant gives notice, it ends the tenancy for all occupants, so tenants should be aware of the implications if a housemate decides to leave.

Rent and Payment Restrictions

• Landlords will be prohibited from asking for rent above the advertised amount or pressuring tenants to outbid others.
• Landlords can request a maximum of one month’s rent upfront but cannot demand large payments as a substitute for a guarantor.
• Tenants may choose to pay rent in larger instalments, such as termly payments, if they wish.

These reforms aim to create a fairer renting environment and provide tenants with clearer rights and responsibilities.

Further Information and Advice

Students and other tenants seeking advice on how the Renters’ Rights Act may affect them can contact local housing advice services. Leeds University Union’s advice team offers support and information for those in need of guidance on housing matters.