Renting is changing in May 2026 – here's what it means for you

Major changes to renting are coming into force next month, and they’re likely to affect how students find accommodation, live in it, and move out. If you’re planning to leave your rented place in the summer, you’ll now need to give advance notice — even if your contract was originally due to end then.

The new Renters’ Rights Act 2025 will introduce stronger protections for tenants across England from May 2026. The reforms aim to make renting more stable, predictable and fair.

Here’s what you need to know.

No more fixed contracts

Fixed-term contracts, such as 6 or 12 months, will be replaced with rolling agreements.

This gives you more flexibility if your plans change, but you will need to give two months’ notice if you decide to leave.

For students like you, this could make things like placements, study abroad, or last-minute life changes a lot easier to manage, just don’t forget that two months’ notice!

No more surprise evictions

Another big change is the end of so-called “no-fault evictions.” Landlords can no longer ask you to leave without a valid reason.

This means no more sudden “you have two months to go” messages when you have done nothing wrong. If a landlord wants the property back, they will need a proper legal reason.

Rent increases are more controlled

Landlords will only be able to increase rent once per year and must give proper notice.

You will also have the right to challenge increases you believe are unfair, which may help with budgeting.

No more bidding

Landlords must advertise a clear rental price and cannot accept higher offers from tenants.

This is designed to make the process of securing a property more transparent and reduce pressure on renters to outbid each other.

Lower upfront costs

Landlords will only be able to request one month’s rent in advance.

This could make it easier for students to secure accommodation without needing large upfront payments.

Yes, pets are (kind of) allowed

Tenants will have the right to request a pet, and landlords must provide a valid reason if they refuse.

There will also be stronger protections against discrimination, including rules preventing landlords from rejecting tenants based on benefits or family status.

So your dream of having a cat in your student house is slightly more realistic now.

So…what does this mean overall?

These changes are designed to give you more control, more stability, and fewer nasty surprises when renting.

You may benefit from fewer unexpected disruptions, clearer pricing, and more flexibility in your housing choices. At the same time, rolling contracts mean you will need to plan ahead when deciding to move out.

If you are planning your next house, it is worth understanding how these changes could shape the rental market from 2026 onwards.