Landlord guide

Renters’ Rights Act checklist for landlords

The biggest change to renting in a generation. Use this checklist to make sure your lettings in Poole and Bournemouth are compliant.

In force since 1 May 2026

Your checklist

Tick each item as you check it. This is a summary, not legal advice; ask us or your solicitor about your own lettings.

Tenancy type. All assured shorthold tenancies became rolling assured periodic tenancies on 1 May 2026. New tenancies can no longer be for a fixed term.
Information for tenants. Tenants of tenancies that existed before 1 May 2026 needed the Government’s Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet by 31 May 2026. New tenancies need a written statement of terms.
No more Section 21. “No-fault” evictions have ended. Possession now needs a valid Section 8 ground, such as selling, moving in, or rent arrears, with the correct notice.
Rent increases. Rent can only be increased once a year using the Section 13 process, with at least two months’ notice. Tenants can challenge increases at the tribunal.
Advertising and rent in advance. You must advertise a rent figure and can’t invite or accept offers above it. Rent in advance is limited, so check what you can ask for before the tenancy starts.
Pets. Tenants can ask to keep a pet, and you must consider the request and not refuse it unreasonably.
Fair letting. It’s unlawful to refuse tenants because they have children or receive benefits.
Safety and compliance. Keep gas safety, electrical (EICR), EPC, smoke and carbon monoxide alarm and deposit protection paperwork up to date. Minimum EPC standards are due to rise.
Coming next. Further phases include a private rented sector database, a landlord ombudsman, and applying the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law to private rentals. We’ll keep our landlords updated as dates are confirmed.

Let us take care of it

Our fully managed service handles tenancy paperwork, rent reviews, compliance certificates and possession processes under the new rules, so you don’t have to. Find out about letting with Athertons.

Thinking about letting or selling?

Talk to our team for a free rental valuation, or a sales valuation if you’re thinking of selling up.

Book a free valuation Call 01202 512348

Renters’ Rights Act Checklist for Landlords

Renters’ Rights Act checklist for landlords

Your checklist

Let us take care of it

Thinking about letting or selling?

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Bournemouth Branch
508 Wimborne Road, Bournemouth, BH9 2EX
Tel no: 01202 512348
bournemouth@athertonsea.com

Poole Branch
14 Dorchester Road, Poole, BH15 3JY
Tel no: 01202 681113
poole@athertonsea.com

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