What the New Renting Rules Mean for Tenants

1. Landlords can’t evict you for no reason

Before, many renters were asked to leave their home suddenly, even when they’d done nothing wrong.
Now, landlords must have a proper reason if they want you to move out.

2. Landlords can’t say “No DSS”

Some landlords used to refuse tenants on benefits.
The new rules ban this discrimination. Landlords are not allowed to reject you just because you get Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or other benefits.

3. Your tenancy will not end after 6 or 12 months

All tenancies will be open‑ended.
This means there is no fixed end date, so you can feel more secure in your home.

4. Rent can only go up once a year

Landlords can’t raise the rent more than once every 12 months.
If the rent goes up, you can challenge it.

5. You only ever pay up to one month’s rent upfront

Some landlords used to ask for several months’ rent in advance.
Now they can ask for one month’s rent max.

6. You can ask to have a pet

Landlords must consider your request fairly if you want to have a pet. They can’t ignore you or refuse for no good reason.

Later in 2026:

• A new online register will let you check if your landlord is properly listed.
• A free Ombudsman service will help sort out problems with your landlord without going to court.