It’s Official: The Rental Rules Have Changed!
The Renters’ Rights Act is now in force. Here’s what landlords and tenants across Sussex need to know and do next.
The Renters’ Rights Act Is Now Live: What It Means for Sussex Landlords and Tenants
As of today, the Renters’ Rights Act has officially come into force, marking one of the biggest changes to the private rental sector in decades.
For landlords and tenants across Brighton, Lewes and Shoreham by Sea the changes are immediate and, in some cases, quite significant.
Here’s what you need to know.
Section 21 has gone:
The abolition of Section 21 is now in effect.
Landlords can no longer issue a ‘no fault’ eviction. Instead, all possession must be based on specific legal grounds, such as selling the property or repeated rent arrears.
This moves the balance towards:
- Greater tenant security
- More structured tenancy management
- Clearer legal processes for regaining possession
For local landlords, especially in high-demand areas like Brighton, this means getting paperwork and processes spot on from day one.
All tenancies are now periodic:
Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies have effectively been replaced by rolling agreements.
Tenants can now give notice at any point, typically with two months’ notice, offering far more flexibility.
For landlords, this means:
- Less certainty around fixed terms
- A need to plan ahead for potential void periods
- Reviewing how seasonal or student lets are managed
Rent increases: tighter rules
Rent increases are now limited to once per year and must follow a formal notice process. They must reflect current market value, and tenants have the right to challenge increases they feel are excessive. In areas like Lewes and Shoreham, where rents have steadily risen, accurate pricing has never been more important.
Higher standards are now expected:
The Act introduces stronger requirements around property conditions, with a clear focus on issues like damp, mould and general safety.
For landlords, this is about:
- Staying compliant
- Protecting the long-term value of your asset
- Maintaining tenant satisfaction
Given the coastal climate in Sussex, regular inspections and preventative maintenance will be key.
Pets: a new approach
Tenants now have greater rights to request a pet, and landlords must provide a valid reason to refuse.
This could widen your tenant pool, but it’s worth reviewing:
- Your tenancy agreements
- Insurance cover
- Property suitability
What landlords should do right now:
With the Act now in force from May 1st 2026, action is needed rather than preparation.
We recommend:
- Reviewing all existing tenancies.
- Updating agreements and processes.
- Keeping thorough records of communication and property condition.
- Speak to us to ensure your approach aligns with current legislation.
And for tenants?
As a tenant, you will now benefit from greater stability and clearer rights, but responsibilities remain the same.
It’s important to:
- Communicate openly with your landlord and agent.
- Report maintenance issues promptly.
- Understand the new structure around notice and rent increases.
This is a landmark moment for the rental market.
While the Renters’ Rights Act introduces more structure and accountability, we believe it also creates a more balanced system for both landlords and tenants.
As ever, local knowledge makes all the difference. If you’re unsure how these changes affect your property in Brighton, Lewes or Shoreham, or the surrounding area, we’re here to help and always happy to talk you through it.
