Major changes to Renters’ Rights: What it means for residents

Cheshire West and Chester Council is highlighting significant reforms coming into force in the private rented sector, as the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 brings the biggest changes to renting in nearly 40 years

These reforms aim to improve security, fairness, and stability for the thousands of private renters and landlords across the borough.

From 1st May 2026, new national rules will reshape how renting works, giving tenants stronger protections while ensuring landlords have clear and consistent guidance to follow.

The key changes for local renters and landlords are:

• End of Section 21 ‘no‑fault’ evictions:
  Tenants will no longer be removed without a legally valid reason, offering greater security and reducing the fear of unfair evictions.
• End of fixed-term assured tenancies:
  All tenancies will become rolling periodic agreements.
  → Tenants can end their tenancy at any time with two months’ notice.
  → Landlords may only end a tenancy using a legally defined possession ground.
• 12‑month protected period:
  During the first year of any tenancy, landlords cannot evict tenants to sell the property or move in.
• Protection from discrimination:
  Landlords will not be allowed to refuse or discourage applicants because they have children or receive benefits.
• Ban on rental bidding wars:
  Landlords will be prohibited from asking for or accepting offers above the advertised rent.
• Fairer upfront costs:
  Landlords can request a maximum of one month’s rent upfront.
• Rent rise protections:
  Rent can only be increased once per year, and tenants can challenge increases they believe exceed market value through a tribunal.

New rights for tenants:

• Tenants will have the right to request a pet, which landlords cannot unreasonably refuse.
• Renters will be empowered to challenge excessive rent increases with confidence through an independent tribunal.

Cllr Christine Warner, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Homes and Planning said:

“These changes aim to improve stability and clarity within the private rented sector across Cheshire West and Chester and nationally. Many renters experience challenges such as high upfront costs or uncertainty about their housing situation.

“The new legislation sets out clearer expectations for both tenants and landlords. The Council will provide information and support to help people understand what the changes mean and how they apply.”

The Government has published detailed guidance for both landlords and tenants, which can be found at: 

www.gov.uk/rentingischanging