Stroud District Council prepares residents for major changes under the Renters Rights Act
Private tenants and landlords across the Stroud district are being urged to ensure they comply with important changes to housing law when the Renters Rights Act comes into force on 1 May 2026.
The new Act gives private renters stronger rights and introduces new legal responsibilities for landlords. Stroud District Council is encouraging both landlords and tenants to make sure they understand what the changes mean and where to find help and guidance if they need it.
Cllr Gary Luff, Chair of Housing Committee, said:
“These changes are designed to give tenants greater security in their homes and ensure landlords understand their legal duties. We want every private tenant and landlord in the Stroud district to know what the new law means for them and where they can go for help. Our Private Sector Housing Officers are here to support tenants and landlords through the transition.”
What tenants need to know
From 1 May 2026:
• Landlords can’t evict tenants without specified legal grounds because Section 21 “no fault” evictions will be abolished.
• Rent increases must be reasonable, limited to once a year, and require at least two months’ notice.
• Tenants can raise concerns about their living conditions without fear of unfair eviction.
• Tenants will need to give two months’ notice if they want to end their tenancy unless the landlord agrees to a shorter time.
• Tenants can request permission to keep a pet. Landlords must give a justifiable reason if they refuse.
• The council can investigate complaints and take enforcement action if a landlord breaks the law. Penalties range from £7,000 to £40,000 and tenants may be able to reclaim money if an offence is proven through a rent repayment order application to the court.
What landlords need to know
• The law changes on 1 May and all private landlords must comply with the Renters Rights Act.
• Landlords must provide a government information sheet to all existing tenants by 31 May 2026 or face a fine of up to £7,000. The sheet can be downloaded here: The Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026 - GOV.UK
• Landlords must issue all new tenants with written information about key tenancy terms or could be fined up to £7,000.
• Eviction will still be possible, but only on legally recognised grounds such as selling the property or moving in yourself.
• Rent increases must be fair and reasonable, and only once a year.
• Assured Shorthold Tenancies will be replaced by Assured Periodic Tenancies.
• National guidance has been issued, and Stroud District Council will signpost tenants and landlords to support via its website.
• A new national landlord database will be introduced within 18 months, and a new private rented sector ombudsman will be formed.
In the future, a new Decent homes Standard will be introduced, extending Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector, which means landlords will be legally required to investigate and fix serious issues such as damp and mould within clear timeframes.
These changes do not apply to lodgers who live with their landlord, regulated or protected tenants, or social rented/council tenants.
Supporting residents and partners
The council’s Private Sector Housing team is preparing for an increase in enquiries as the new law takes effect. Dedicated information for landlords and tenants is available on the council’s website: https://stroud.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/ and on the government website: https://housinghub.campaign.gov.uk
Cllr Luff added:
“We know people may have questions, so we’re making sure information is clear, accessible, and easy to find. Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, our website is the best place to start, and we’ll keep our guidance up to date as national advice is released.”
Sign up for regular email alerts from Stroud District Council here.
For social media updates follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.