Renters Right Bill - Important Information

The Government has now confirmed the draft wording and content required for the new Written Statement of Terms and Information under the Renters’ Rights Act.

It has now been announced that from 1 May 2026 all new tenancies (and any tenancy agreed after this date) must be accompanied by a Written Statement of Terms and Information containing prescribed mandatory content before the tenancy agreement is signed or occupancy begins.

This also means that existing tenancies with written agreements, landlords must serve tenants with a government-issued Information Sheet explaining the Renters’ Rights Act changes by the 31^st May 2026

And by the 31^st May Existing oral/verbal tenancies must be formalised in writing or accompanied by a written summary of key terms by this date.

 

Written Statement of Terms — What Must Be Included 

Under the draft Assured Tenancies (Private Rented Sector) (Written Statement of Terms, etc. and Information Sheet) Regulations 2026, the following are mandatory in the written statement for assured periodic tenancies from 1 May 2026:-

 

1. Landlord name(s) (including joint landlords)
2. Tenant name(s)
3. Address in England or Wales where notices can be served on the landlord
4. Address of the property
5. Date tenant is entitled to possession
6. Rent amount and payment due dates
7. Statement that rent can only be increased via a Section 13 notice
8. Details of utilities/council tax/TV/comms — whether included or separately payable, and how payment/notification will work
9. Security deposit amount (if taken)
10. Minimum tenant notice period required to terminate the tenancy (typically two months unless otherwise agreed)
11. Possession process information:

• Landlord normally needs a court order to end the tenancy
• Service of a Section 8 Notice and that the notice period depends on the grounds used

1. Fit for human habitation obligation (in most cases)
2. Landlord safety & maintenance obligations:

• Section 11 Landlord & Tenant Act 1985
• Electrical Safety Regulations
• Gas Safety (installation and use) Regulations (if gas present)

1. Equality Act Section 190 information — unreasonably withholding consent to adaptations for disability is prohibited
2. Pets statement — tenants can request a pet under Section 16A of HA1988 and landlord must not unreasonably refuse
3. Supported accommodation statement (if relevant) — with an explanation why it meets supported accommodation criteria.

 

Failure to provide a compliant Written Statement can result in:

• Civil penalties of up to £7,000
• Higher penalties for serious or repeat breaches

 

As the leading agent in the area we will of course ensure you are protected for those who use our managed service.

As always any further updates we will advise,