FAQs - How the Renters Rights Act changes apply to Retirement Properties

Yes. All private rental properties, including retirement housing, are covered by the new law. This means you benefit from the same protections as any other renter: no-fault evictions are banned, rent increases are limited to once a year, and you have the right to request a pet.

Renting in later life remains a flexible and straightforward option, and these changes mean you can do so with even greater confidence and peace of mind.

• No more ‘no-fault’ evictions: Landlords can no longer ask you to leave without giving a proper legal reason. Your home is more secure than ever.
• Month-to-month tenancy – no fixed terms: Your tenancy will roll on a monthly basis, so you are not tied into a fixed contract. You can give two months’ notice to leave at any time.
• Eviction only for a proper reason: If a landlord ever needs you to leave, they must give a legitimate reason recognised by law – for example, serious rent arrears or if they need to sell the property.
• Rent increases limited: Your rent can only go up once a year, and if you believe an increase is unfair, you have the right to challenge it.
• Upfront costs capped: Landlords can only ask for one month’s rent in advance, keeping the initial cost of moving as manageable as possible.
• No competitive bidding: Landlords and letting agents cannot ask you to offer more than the advertised rent to secure a property.
• Protection against unfair refusal: It is illegal for a landlord to refuse a tenancy on discriminatory grounds, including where someone receives benefits such as pension credit or housing benefit.
• Right to request a pet: You can ask to keep a pet in your home, and your landlord cannot refuse without good reason.

If you already have a tenancy agreement in place, it will automatically change to the new rolling arrangement on 1 May 2026. You do not need to sign anything new. Your landlord should write to let you know about the changes, but your rights are protected whether or not they do so.

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is a new law that reforms renting in England, giving tenants stronger rights and greater security. The main changes come into effect on 1 May 2026.