Mandatory Landlord Requirement: Serving the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet for Existing Tenancies

The Renters’ Rights Act will bring in significant changes to the private rented sector from the 1st May 2026, when phase 1 of the Act commences. 

Landlords should refer to the Renters’ Rights Act: Implementation Timeline for the key implementation dates, and Guidance: Renters’ Rights Act for Residential Landlords for a detailed overview of the changes.

Landlords of existing Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) granted before the commencement date must provide tenants with the official Government document, “Renters’ Rights Information Sheet” .

This requirement forms part of the wider reforms to the private rented sector and is a mandatory step to ensure legal compliance during the transition to the new tenancy framework.

Statutory Requirement to Serve the Information Sheet

The information sheet can be downloaded directly from the official government website via the link above. Landlords must ensure that the document is downloaded in full and provided to tenants in its entirety, and it is recommended that you review the contents of it carefully before distributing it to tenants.

Key Deadline for Compliance 

Landlords must serve the Information Sheet on all existing tenants no later than 31st May 2026.

Timely service is essential. Failure to comply within the prescribed timeframe may result in enforcement action.

Financial Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Failure to comply with this requirement can result in significant financial penalties as follows:

• £7,000 for an initial breach; and 
• Higher penalties of up to £40,000 for repeated non-compliance

Landlords should therefore take proactive steps to ensure that all relevant tenants are served within the required timeframe.

New Landlord Resources and Next Steps

To assist with compliance, landlords are advised to download and the following resources:

• Guidance: Existing Tenancies & Renters’ Rights Act
• Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet Covering Letter

These documents are designed to support landlords in meeting their legal obligations and to reduce the risk of errors when serving the Information Sheet.