Cumbrian property landlords are being urged to familiarise themselves with new legislation to ensure they stay on the right side of the law.
Sarah Gemmell, the Head of Lettings at C&D Rural’s estate agency, is urging landlords to be aware of a raft of changes proposed by the Renters’ Right Act, set to be rolled out early in 2026, to avoid fouling foul of the new legislation.
Based in Cumbria, C&D also operates across the South of Scotland where a similar renting model to the one proposed for the whole of the UK is in place, meaning its estate agency team already has experience of dealing with the new rules.
Sarah said: “With the Renters’ Rights Act set to be implemented early next year, it is vital that property owners understand what these changes means for them. It is estimated that 11 million people across the UK will be impacted by the legislation, with thousands affected across Cumbria alone.
“The legislation is weighted in favour of renters to give them improved rights, and this will give more security to those renting a home.
“There will be more restrictions placed on evictions as more formalised grounds will be required, so the challenge for landlords will be to adjust to how tenancies will be managed.
“As an estate agency covering both sides of the England/Scotland border, our team is well-placed to offer vital advice to help landlords facing this new, stringent legislation for the first time. The changes will make the model similar to the one currently in place in Scotland, and we are fully aware of what is required to ensure landlords are compliant.”
The Renters’ Right Act recently received Royal Assent and is described as the most significant change to the UK rental market for more than 30 years, introducing new protections for tenants while reshaping responsibilities for landlords.
The main changes landlords need to be aware of are:
- End of ‘no-fault’ evictions: Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 notices, which allowed landlords to evict tenants without reason, are set to be abolished;
- Rolling contracts introduced: The fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced with Assured Periodic Tenancies (APTs), permitting tenants to occupy a property on a rolling basis without a fixed end date;
- Enhanced protection for tenants: Changes proposed include limiting the amount of rent paid in advance, giving more rights for pet ownership and creating stronger enforcement/penalties for non-compliance by landlords;
- Stricter standards: Properties must meet enhanced safety and quality requirements. Failure to comply could result in penalties or restrictions on letting;
- Greater transparency: Landlords will need to provide clear information on tenancy terms and maintain compliance with updated regulations.
Sarah said: “There are numerous legislative changes set to be implemented which will have a huge impact on how landlords operate. While the Act aims to create a fairer system, it introduces stricter obligations.
“Understanding these requirements is essential to avoid costly disputes or enforcement action. Landlords should review tenancy agreements, update property standards, and seek professional advice where necessary.”
Sarah is urging landlords to act now and put steps in place to ensure they are compliant to the legislation ahead of its implementation, including carrying out audits of their properties to ensure they meet the new criteria.
C&D Rural’s estate agency specialises in the sale and letting of homes across Cumbria, Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders.
Sarah can be contacted at sarah@cdrural.co.uk or 01228 792299.
