The Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent in October 2025, and its main measures are expected to come into effect from May 2026. This legislation marks the biggest shift in the private rented sector for decades and will significantly change how landlords operate across Coventry.
Designed to create a fairer, safer and more transparent rental system, the new rules introduce clearer processes, higher property standards and stronger rights for tenants. Below is a clear breakdown of what’s changing and what landlords in Coventry should begin preparing for now.
The Key Changes Landlords Need to Know
1. The End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions
Section 21 will be abolished. All tenancies will move to periodic agreements, and landlords will only be able to seek possession using approved legal grounds such as selling the property, moving in themselves, or pursuing serious rent arrears. This will require updated tenancy agreements and compliant notice-serving processes.
2. A New Standard Process for Rent Increases
All rent increases must follow a single statutory route. Tenants will be able to challenge increases they believe exceed market value, so accurate, evidence-based rent reviews will be essential.
3. Ban on Rental Discrimination
Landlords and agents will no longer be permitted to reject tenants because they receive benefits or have children. Marketing materials, viewing procedures and referencing processes must be fully compliant.
4. No Rental Bidding Wars & Rent in Advance Cap
Landlords and agents will not be allowed to encourage or accept offers above the advertised rent. Rent in advance will be capped at one month, making the process more transparent for applicants.
5. Mandatory PRS Database & Landlord Ombudsman
Every landlord will be required to register their property on the new Private Rented Sector Database and join the mandatory Ombudsman. This increases accountability and gives tenants a clearer route for resolving disputes.
6. Decent Homes Standard for All Private Rentals
The Decent Homes Standard will apply to private rented homes for the first time, requiring them to be safe, warm and in good repair. Awaab’s Law will also strengthen expectations around swift responses to damp and mould issues.
7. Stronger Enforcement & Higher Penalties
Local councils will gain wider powers, including increased fines and extended Rent Repayment Orders for landlords who fail to comply. Good documentation and proactive management will be more important than ever.
What Coventry Landlords Should Be Doing Now
To stay ahead of the May 2026 changes, landlords should begin preparing early. Key steps include:
- Reviewing and updating tenancy agreements in readiness for periodic tenancies
- Ensuring all marketing and referencing processes are free from discriminatory language
- Assessing properties to ensure they meet the Decent Homes Standard
- Strengthening documentation for repairs, communication and rent reviews
- Preparing to register with the PRS Database and Ombudsman when launched
- Taking a proactive approach to damp, mould and repair turnaround times
- Reviewing rent-in-advance procedures and affordability checks
These updates may feel manageable for some, but self-managed landlords in particular may find the additional legal processes, evidence requirements and compliance checks more time-consuming than before.
How Elite Property Can Support Coventry Landlords
With more than 26 years of experience managing homes across Coventry, Elite Property is well-placed to help landlords adjust smoothly to the Renters’ Rights Act. Our team handles everything from updated tenancy documents and compliant rent reviews to property inspections, repairs and ensuring your home meets the Decent Homes Standard.
We also stay on top of all legislative changes, meaning you can avoid costly mistakes, reduce risk and feel confident your property is being managed professionally and legally. Whether you are a portfolio landlord or currently self-managing a single property, we can take the pressure off and make these new requirements straightforward.
