The renters’ rights act: What landlords need to know (and why insurance matters)

What’s changed?

The Renters’ Rights Act, implemented from 1 May 2026, represents the biggest shift in private renting in a generation. Key changes include:

• The end of Section 21 “no fault” evictions¹
• A move to periodic tenancies with no fixed end date²
• New legal obligations, including providing official information to tenants and following stricter processes when managing tenancies³

The reforms are designed to create a fairer, more secure system for tenants, while also introducing new responsibilities for landlords.

Why risk exposure is increasing

While many landlords already operate to a high standard, the new framework places greater emphasis on process, compliance and documentation. This can increase exposure in areas such as:

• Possession processes: landlords must rely on defined legal grounds rather than “no fault” routes⁴
• Disputes: tenants now have stronger rights and clearer routes to challenge decisions⁵
• Documentation: landlords must follow and evidence correct procedures when managing tenancies⁶

In practice, this means that getting processes wrong could lead to delays, disputes or additional costs.

Where insurance can support landlords

Insurance cannot prevent disputes, but it may help manage the financial impact if they arise. Common areas of cover* include:

• Legal expenses insurance: can help cover the cost of disputes, tribunal hearings or possession proceedings
• Rent protection or malicious damage cover: may provide financial support if tenants default or cause damage
• Loss of rent cover: may help maintain income if a property becomes uninhabitable following an insured event
• Buildings and landlord insurance: may help respond to property-related losses, subject to policy terms and exclusions
• Landlord insurance extensions: may provide additional protection for selected risks within the rental sector

This is not about expecting problems; it is about considering how prepared you are for them.

Why it matters now

The Act places greater importance on doing things correctly first time. Where disputes do arise, they may take longer or become more complex, particularly as tenants gain stronger rights and access to challenge processes.⁷

For landlords, this shifts risk from simply managing property to managing compliance and legal exposure.

Speak to your broker

If you own or manage rental property, it may be helpful to review your position. Your broker can help you:

• Understand how the Renters’ Rights Act affects your risk profile
• Discuss potential gaps in your insurance cover
• Review whether your insurance arrangements remain appropriate as the legal landscape changes

A review now may help you understand where further action or advice could be needed as the rental market continues to evolve.

Talk to us

Call us on 01274 515747, email mail@lwood.co.uk, or drop by. We’re here Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm.