Renters and landlords across Dorset are being urged to familiarise themselves with major changes to renting as the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force on Friday (1 May 2026.)
The new legislation represents the biggest reform of the private rented sector in decades and is designed to improve standards, increase fairness and provide more stability for tenants, while offering clarity and consistency for landlords.
Dorset Council is supporting both renters and landlords to understand what the new rules mean in practice and how to prepare for the changes.
What it means for renters
- For private renters, the new Act introduces greater security and fairness. Rolling tenancies will become the norm, offering more stability without being locked into long fixed‑term contracts.
- “No‑fault” evictions will come to an end, meaning tenants can no longer be asked to leave without a valid legal reason. There will also be clearer rules around rent increases, which will be limited to once a year, and stronger protections against discrimination.
- The Act also bans rental bidding, ensuring rents cannot be set higher than the advertised price
- It introduces stronger rights around pets, helping more renters feel at home.
What the changes mean for landlords
- From 1 May 2026, all new tenancies must be in writing and be Assured Periodic Tenancies. This means tenancies will be open‑ended or “rolling”, rather than fixed‑term. Fixed‑term contracts at the start of a tenancy will no longer be lawful.
- By 31 May 2026, landlords must ensure that all existing tenants are provided with the “Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet 2026”, which explains how the new law affects their tenancy. Landlords must also be able to show evidence that this information has been served, for example by email, post or in person.
- Eviction rules are also changing. While landlords will still be able to regain possession of a property, this can now only be done for specific legal reasons and by following the correct evidence‑based process.
- Enforcement will focus on serious or repeated non‑compliance, and mitigating circumstances will be considered.
Dorset Council is keen to support early understanding of the changes so that landlords and tenants can prepare and adapt smoothly.
Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Health, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act brings significant changes for everyone involved in private renting, and it is really important that both landlords and tenants understand what those changes mean.
“Getting informed early will help avoid confusion, prevent problems and ensure tenancies remain fair, stable and lawful. We are here to support people through this transition and make sure everyone has access to clear, reliable guidance.”
