How the Renters’ Rights Act affects renting a retirement property – and what to check before you move

If you are considering renting a retirement property, you are probably thinking about much more than just the size of the rooms. You may be thinking about security, support, peace of mind, and how easy it would be to move again if your needs change.

At the same time, you may have heard about the Renters’ Rights Act and wondered what it actually means for you, particularly if you are looking at a retirement property. Here, our Rental team explains what is changing, what stays the same, and what you should check before renting a retirement home.

 

First things first: What is the Renters’ Rights Act, and when does it start?

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is a reform of the private rental sector in England. The main changes are due to start on 1 May 2026.

The goal is to create more security for tenants and a clearer, fairer system for everyone involved.

If you are planning a move in 2026, and considering renting a retirement property, these changes are worth understanding now.

 

The biggest changes for tenants (and why they matter)

1) No more “no-fault” evictions

One of the most important changes is that landlords can no longer ask you to leave without giving a proper reason. This is sometimes called ending “no-fault” evictions.

Whilst it is very uncommon for retirement tenants to face eviction, this change gives you genuine peace of mind and long-term stability in your home.

2) Month-to-month tenancies – no fixed terms

All tenancies will move to a simple rolling arrangement, meaning you will not be tied into a fixed-term contract. You can end your tenancy at any time by giving two months’ notice.

This is especially reassuring if your health, care needs, or personal circumstances change and you need to move on.

3) Evictions only for specific legal reasons

A landlord can only ask you to leave if there is a proper legal reason – for example, if there are serious rent arrears or if the landlord needs to sell the property.

The whole process is now clearer and more straightforward, so you can feel secure in your home.

4) Rent increases are limited

Rent can only be increased once per year, and tenants can challenge unfair increases.

This makes it much easier to budget and plan your finances in retirement, as you will not face unexpected rent rises.

5) Advance rent is capped

Landlords can only ask for one month’s rent in advance, which helps to keep the upfront costs of moving as low as possible.

All deposit and fee details will be set out clearly in the property information before you commit to anything.

6) No more competitive bidding for homes

Landlords and letting agents cannot ask prospective tenants to offer more than the asking rent to secure a property. This means you will not feel pressured into paying over the odds simply to get a home.

7) Stronger protection against unfair treatment

The law makes it illegal for a landlord to refuse a tenancy on discriminatory grounds, including where someone receives benefits such as a pension credit or housing benefit.

If you feel you have been treated unfairly at any point during the rental process, you can report this to your local council or speak to Citizens Advice for guidance.

8) The right to request pets

Tenants now have the right to request a pet, and landlords cannot refuse without a good reason.

(Please do check our pet policy for the specific development you are interested in – but as a rule, well-behaved domesticated household pets are very welcome across our retirement communities.)

9) Greater transparency

Tenants will receive clearer information about their rights and any changes to their tenancy, so you always know exactly where you stand.

 

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Do the Renters’ Rights Act changes apply to retirement properties?

Yes. All private rental properties, including our retirement apartments, are covered. That means if you are renting a retirement property, you benefit from the same protections:

• No-fault evictions are banned
• Rolling tenancies
• Limited rent increases
• You can request a pet
• And the overall tenancy system is designed to be clearer and fairer
• For those considering renting later in life, these changes bring real reassurance and long-term stability.

 

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What should you check before signing a tenancy for a retirement rental?

Before you commit to renting a retirement property, it is worth going through a few important questions first. Here are the key things to check:

1. The length and type of tenancy (and how you can end it)
2. What facilities and services are included
3. Any service charges or additional fees
4. How to request repairs, maintenance, or support
5. Any age restrictions
6. Affordability and budgeting
7. What happens if you need to leave early, including any notice requirements

 

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Where can you get independent advice?

If you want independent guidance on your rights as a renter, you can contact:

• Citizens Advice
• Age UK
• Your local council

You can also read government updates here: gov.uk Renters’ Rights Act