sourced from GOV.UK
based on law in force from 1 May 2026
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The law changed on 1 May 2026

The law changed on 1 May 2026. Find out what your landlord can no longer do.

Describe your situation and find out exactly where you stand. In plain English, right now.

Every answer drawn from official GOV.UK guidance, the UK government's own website

England only — the law differs in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

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What is your situation?

My landlord wants me out

Section 21 no-fault evictions are now illegal. Your landlord needs a legal reason and specific forms.

My rent is going up

Landlords can only raise rent once a year, using Form 4A, with 2 months notice. Has yours done this correctly?

My landlord kept my deposit

Your deposit must be protected in a government scheme. Deductions must be itemised and agreed. We can draft the letter.

Refused because of benefits or children

This is now unlawful. Landlords cannot turn away tenants on benefits or with children.

My landlord will not allow my pet

You now have the right to request a pet. Landlords must give a valid reason in writing if they refuse.

I have been charged illegal fees

Admin fees, referencing fees, and upfront cleaning fees are all banned under the Tenant Fees Act 2019.

A real answer, from a real question

Question

"My landlord gave me a section 21 notice dated 5 May 2026. Do I have to leave?"

Answer

No. This notice has no legal effect. Section 21 no-fault evictions were abolished on 1 May 2026 under the Renters Rights Act. Any section 21 notice served on or after that date is unlawful, regardless of what your tenancy agreement says. Your landlord cannot evict you based on this notice. They would need to start again using a section 8 notice, which requires a valid legal reason such as rent arrears or antisocial behaviour. You should write to your landlord confirming that you are aware the notice is invalid. We can draft that letter for you. If your landlord attempts to remove you, change your locks, or cut off utilities without a court order, contact your local council and the police immediately. This is a criminal offence.

Source: GOV.UK, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, updated 1 May 2026

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Frequently asked

Is this legal advice?
No. We provide legal information explaining what the law says. Legal advice can only be given by a qualified solicitor.
Is this up to date?
Yes. Sourced from GOV.UK guidance last updated 21 May 2026.

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Used by tenants across England since May 2026
information from GOV.UK
Based on law in force from 1 May 2026
England only

Legal information on this site is sourced from GOV.UK, the official UK government website, and reproduced under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. RentingRights is an independent information service. We are not a law firm and we are not affiliated with the government. This service does not provide legal advice. For complex situations, please consult a qualified housing solicitor or contact Shelter on 0808 800 4444, free.