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Daniel Bacon hails the rental revolution, assesses pros and cons for both sides and predicts clogged-up tribunals
- Describes private tenancy sector rights and responsibilities now the Renters’ Rights Act 2026 has come into force.
- Succinctly sets out main points, including that assured shorthold tenancies and s 21 evictions no longer exist while the grounds for possession have broadened to include intention to sell with vacant possession and intention to move a family member into the property.
It is a brave new world in the private rental sector in England. As of 1 May 2026, the Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is gone, there are no more fixed terms for tenancies under the Act, and s 21 is gone. And the tribunals are about to get a whole lot busier.
Possession
The new regime widens and liberalises the opportunities for landlords and lenders to recover possession. There is a new ground where the landlord intends to sell with vacant possession, and a liberalised ground for if a landlord or a family member wants to move into the property.
