The biggest change to private renting in England in decades is now in force. If you rent a home in Shropshire, the Renters’ Rights Act affects you, whether you signed your tenancy years ago or are just starting to look. Here’s a plain-English guide to what has changed, when, and what it means for you.
Key date: 1 May 2026
The Renters’ Rights Act brought in big changes for private tenants from 1 May 2026. The changes apply to both new and existing tenancies. The exception is if your landlord served a valid eviction notice before that date, in which case your rights might not have changed.
1. No more “no-fault” evictions
Since 1 May 2026, your landlord can no longer use a Section 21 notice, the route that let them ask you to leave without giving a reason. To take back the property, a landlord must now rely on a legal ground under Section 8 and prove it applies. Valid reasons include things like the landlord wishing to sell or move in, or serious rent arrears.
2. Your tenancy is now rolling
On 1 May 2026, every assured shorthold tenancy became an assured periodic tenancy, which simply rolls on from one rent period to the next. If you were in a fixed term, it is now an assured periodic tenancy. You can stay as long as you like, until a landlord uses a valid ground to end it.
3. Easier to leave
You can now end your tenancy whenever you like by giving at least two months’ written notice. You’re no longer locked into a fixed term if your circumstances change, for example a new job or a growing family.
4. Rent rises are limited and can be challenged
- Landlords must use a formal Section 13 notice to raise the rent. Rent review clauses in your agreement no longer count.
- Increases are limited to once a year, with two months’ notice.
- You can challenge any rent increase at the Property Tribunal if you think it is unfair. The tribunal can accept the proposed rent or set a lower one, but not a higher one.
5. Fairer lettings
- Bidding wars are banned, so landlords and agents can’t invite you to offer more than the advertised rent.
- Landlords can no longer ask for more than one month’s rent in advance on new lettings.
- It is illegal to refuse tenants because they receive benefits or have children.
6. The right to ask for a pet
Tenants have strengthened rights to request pets, and landlords must consider the request within 28 days. A landlord can’t refuse unreasonably.
7. Stronger enforcement
Councils have wider powers to investigate landlords, with higher penalties applying from 1 May 2026. Rent Repayment Orders, which let tenants reclaim rent when a landlord has committed certain offences, now reach back up to 24 months.
What you should have received
If your tenancy began before 1 May 2026, your landlord had to give you the government’s information sheet. The deadline was 31 May 2026. If you never received it, ask your landlord or agent for a copy. For new tenancies, your landlord must provide a written agreement setting out key terms and your rights.
What’s still to come
Not everything has started yet. The Private Rented Sector Database, the landlord Ombudsman, the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law are being introduced in later phases on a rolling timetable. We’ll keep you updated as dates are confirmed.
Where to get help in Shropshire
If you think your rights aren’t being respected, speak to your letting agent first. You can also get free advice from Shelter and Citizens Advice, or contact Telford & Wrekin Council’s housing or private sector enforcement team.
Renting in Shropshire with Nick Tart Lettings
We keep our tenants informed and make sure every tenancy we manage follows the new rules. Looking for a home in Shropshire? Call 01952 432 732 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
This article is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your situation, contact Shelter, Citizens Advice or a solicitor.
