Renters' Rights Act and other Information

Renting is changing from the 1st May 2026. Reforms to the private rented sector in England are bringing in new rights and responsibilities for landlords, letting agents and tenants. 

For current guidance, links and up-to-date information visit the gov.uk website. Landlords will need to provide tenants with certain written information from the 1st May 2026 for existing and new tenants. Renting out your property: guidance for landlords and letting agents - Tenancy agreements: written information for your tenant - Guidance - GOV.UK

Key changes that will happen on the 1st May 2026 can be found here: Private landlords

• The Renters’ Rights Act : Staying Compliant: A Practical Checklist for Landlord - PDF

Carbon monoxide detectors 

From the 1st October 2022 landlords must ensure that a carbon monoxide alarm is fitted in any room with a fixed combustion appliance which includes a gas boiler (but not a cooker)  Previously it only applied where solid fuel appliances were present. Further guidance

Energy efficiency

Minimum energy efficiency standards apply to all private rented dwellings. All lettings must have an EPC rating of E or above, unless an exemption has been registered.  

Electrical Safety Standards 

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations require all landlords to ensure electrical installations are inspected and tested at intervals of no more than 5 years by a qualified and competent electrician, and to provide a satisfactory report to tenants. 

Enforcement and Civil Penalties 

The Council has adopted the following private sector housing enforcement and civil penalties polices:

• Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy (592 KB)
• Civil Penalties Under The Renters' Rights Act (1021 KB)
• Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations Policy (89 KB)
• Redress Schemes For Letting Agency Work And Property Management Policy (236 KB)