20/03/2026
๐ก Three key changes savvy landlords are preparing for ๐ก
The response to last months article showed one thing clearly: landlords want clarity on the Rentersโ Rights Act, and they want it now. With the biggest reforms in a generation landing on 1 May 2026 - including the end of Section 21 and all ASTs becoming openโended periodic tenancies, the sector is about to shift. Most landlords know the headlines, but the real impact, and the real opportunities lie in the details.
Here are the three areas that forwardโthinking landlords are already
getting ahead of:
1๏ธโฃ Understanding the updated possession rules
With Section 21 going, every possession route moves through the revamped section 8 grounds. These new rules are clearer, but not simpler. Notice periods, evidence requirements, and rentโarrears thresholds are changing, and each affects whether a case succeeds. Landlords who understand this early will stay in control.
2๏ธโฃ Getting documentation right first time
From 1 May, landlords must issue a Written Statement of Terms for every tenancy, and provide the governmentโs Information Sheet by 31 May 2026.
Handled correctly, these documents protect landlords and strengthen their position. Handled incorrectlyโฆ they can limit your rights later. This is one area where precision matters.
3๏ธโฃ Recognising that enforcement is about to get sharper
Councils will have wider powers and stronger tools, including fines of up to ยฃ7,000 for breaches ranging from documentation issues to illegal eviction. With the Ombudsman and landlord database coming online, enforcement will be more coordinated and more visible than ever before. For compliant landlords, this is simply a
shift toward a more professional landscape.
So how do you stay ahead?
This transition is absolutely manageable, with the right preparation and support.
Thatโs exactly what weโre already doing at Burns Hamilton:
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Updating tenancy documents
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Reviewing landlord portfolios
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Mapping new compliance requirements
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Advising on riskโfree transition plans
Our clients wonโt be scrambling in April; theyโll be ready, confident, and compliant.
If youโre unsure how these changes affect your properties, or if you want to make sure your portfolio is fully protected well before May, get in touch with us.
With the Rentersโ Rights Act, the difference between stress and certainty comes down to having the right agent in your corner.
Is your portfolio ready?
If not, Burns Lettings will get you there.
CONTACT US
01202 553335
[email protected]
www.burnshamilton.co.uk
