Renters’ Rights Act Timeline, EPC Reforms and Autumn Budget 2025

The government has released its official implementation roadmap for the Renters’ Rights Act, outlining when the major reforms will take effect. The changes will be introduced in three phases.   

Phase 1: From 1 May 2026 

Major reforms will begin, including: 

• Abolition of Section 21 Notices 
• All tenancies becoming periodic tenancies, with an “Information Sheet” for existing tenants 
• Strengthened Section 8 possession grounds 
• Rent increases permitted only via Section 13 Notices  
• Ban on rental bidding and rent in advance 
• Ban on discrimination against tenants on benefits or with families  
• Requirement to consider pet requests reasonably 

The government is expected to release the final wording for new tenancy agreements and Information Sheet for existing tenants in early 2026. Simply-Docs is already conducting a full review of all templates and will update them as soon as the official materials are published. Until then, landlords can continue using the current range of Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) Agreement Templates. 

Phase 2: Late 2026 

• Launch of the Private Rented Sector Database (PRS)  
• Introduction of the Landlord and Property Ombudsman  

Phase 3: Likely to be 2035 

• Extension of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector 
• Introduction of Awaabs law duties for damp and mould 

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Changes Ahead  

EPC rules are tightening. Since June 2025, new EPC assessment methodology has been in effect. Further reforms from 2026 will introduce stricter assessment criteria, with fines rising to up to £30,000 per property for non-compliance.  

The government remains committed to ensuring that all rental properties achieve an EPC rating of C by 2028. Download the new Guidance Notes: Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for guidance on the current regulations.  

Autumn Budget 2025

The Chancellor’s chaotic Budget introduced major tax changes for landlords. From 2027, the income tax rates applied to  property income will rise by 2 percent, and from 2028 a new 'High Value Tax Surcharge' will apply to properties valued over £2 million. 

With these changes significantly increasing the cost of being a landlord, it is essential to review your compliance processes now.  Access the updated Landlord Compliance Checklist Template in Residential Tenancy Compliance Documents and Templates.  

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