London's private rented sector just experienced its most significant legal overhaul in a generation. The Renters' Rights Act came into force on 1 May 2026, and for landlords across the capital — particularly those letting leasehold flats in areas such as Notting Hill, Kensington, and Chelsea — the immediate priority is clear: most landlords with pre-existing tenancies must deliver the government's official Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet to their tenants by 31 May 2026. Missing this deadline is not a minor administrative slip; it signals non-compliance with a landmark piece of legislation that fundamentally reshapes the landlord-tenant relationship in England.
This guide sets out exactly what the Renters Rights Act 2026 information sheet deadline 31 May means for London landlords, what else the Act requires, and the practical steps every landlord should take right now.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified solicitor or legal adviser for guidance specific to your circumstances.
Key Takeaways
- 📋 31 May 2026 deadline: Landlords with most tenancies that started before 1 May 2026 must serve the government's official Information Sheet on tenants by this date.
- 🚫 Section 21 is gone: No-fault evictions are abolished; landlords must rely on Section 8 grounds.
- 🔄 Fixed terms are out: Most assured and assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) automatically convert to rolling periodic tenancies.
- 💷 Rent increases are capped: Only one increase per year is permitted, via a Section 13 notice.
- 🏠 Property standards matter more than ever: Tenants have stronger rights, making pre-tenancy condition documentation essential.
Table of Contents
- What Is the Renters' Rights Act 2026?
- The 31 May 2026 Information Sheet Deadline Explained
- Key Changes London Landlords Must Understand
- What the Act Means for Notting Hill Leasehold Landlords
- Property Standards: Why Condition Has Never Mattered More
- The PRS Database: What's Coming Later in 2026
- Your Compliance Checklist for May 2026
- FAQ
- Conclusion
What Is the Renters' Rights Act 2026?
The Renters' Rights Act is primary legislation that came into force on 1 May 2026, as published on gov.uk. It applies across England and represents the most sweeping reform of the private rented sector (PRS) since the Housing Act 1988.
The Act was designed to rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants, offering renters greater security and predictability while still allowing landlords legitimate routes to manage and recover their properties.
For London landlords — many of whom own and let leasehold flats in prime central and west London — the Act introduces obligations that require immediate action.
The 31 May 2026 Information Sheet Deadline Explained
💬 "The 31 May 2026 deadline is not optional — it is a legal requirement under the Renters' Rights Act for most landlords with pre-existing tenancies."
According to the legislation and gov.uk guidance, landlords must provide tenants with the official government-issued Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet for most tenancies that were in existence before 1 May 2026. The deadline for doing so is 31 May 2026.
What Is the Information Sheet?
The Information Sheet is an official government document that explains to tenants:
- How their tenancy has changed under the new Act
- Their rights regarding eviction and rent increases
- How to raise complaints or seek redress
How Must It Be Served?
Landlords should follow the service method specified in the legislation or gov.uk guidance — typically in writing, delivered to the tenant directly or via their managing agent. If a letting agent manages the property, confirm with them that they are handling delivery on your behalf.
The Renters Rights Act 2026 information sheet deadline 31 May is one of the most time-sensitive compliance obligations London landlords face right now. Do not delegate this without written confirmation it has been completed.
Key Changes London Landlords Must Understand
The Act introduces several structural changes. Here is a clear summary:
| Change | Detail |
|---|---|
| Section 21 abolished | No-fault evictions are no longer permitted. Landlords must use Section 8 grounds. |
| Tenancy conversion | Most ASTs automatically convert to assured periodic (rolling) tenancies from 1 May 2026. |
| No fixed terms | New tenancies cannot include fixed terms; all tenancies are periodic from the outset. |
| Rent increases | Limited to once per year via a formal Section 13 notice. |
| Rental bidding banned | Landlords and agents cannot accept or solicit bids above the advertised rent. |
| Anti-discrimination | Blanket bans on renting to tenants with children or those receiving benefits are outlawed. |
Section 21: What Landlords Must Do Instead
With Section 21 gone, landlords who need to recover possession must rely on Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988, citing one of the statutory grounds — for example, rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or the landlord's intention to sell or move in. Legal advice is strongly recommended before serving any notice.
Rent Reviews Under Section 13
Landlords can still increase rents, but only once every 12 months and only by serving a valid Section 13 notice with the required notice period. Attempting to increase rent outside this process, or accepting bids above the advertised rent, is unlawful under the Act.
For landlords seeking professional guidance on rent review processes, our rent review service provides expert support.
What the Act Means for Notting Hill Leasehold Landlords
Many landlords in Notting Hill, Holland Park, and the surrounding areas of prime west London own leasehold flats — often within period conversions or mansion blocks. The Renters' Rights Act applies equally to these properties, but there are additional considerations:
- Lease obligations: Your lease may impose conditions on the state of repair and permitted use. Ensuring your tenancy arrangements comply with both the Act and your lease terms is essential.
- Managing agents: If a managing agent handles the building, coordinate with them on compliance — particularly around the Information Sheet deadline and any property condition requirements.
- Dilapidations: With tenants now on rolling periodic tenancies and stronger rights, a clear record of property condition at the start of a tenancy is more important than ever.
Our RICS chartered surveyors in west London regularly assist landlords in Notting Hill and across prime central London with condition reporting and compliance-related surveying work.
Property Standards: Why Condition Has Never Mattered More
With tenants enjoying greater security of tenure and stronger legal protections, disputes over property condition — both at the start and end of a tenancy — are likely to increase. Landlords who cannot demonstrate the condition of their property at the outset are at a disadvantage.
Practical Steps for Landlords
- Commission a Schedule of Condition before a new tenancy begins. This creates a detailed, photographic record of the property's state. See our Schedule of Condition service for more information.
- Arrange a dilapidations survey if a tenancy is ending or if there is a dispute about the state of the property. Our dilapidations survey guide explains the process in detail.
- Check for damp and structural issues: Properties with unresolved damp or structural defects are vulnerable to complaints under the Decent Homes Standard and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. Our damp surveys and structural surveys can identify issues before they become disputes.
- Roof condition: Many leasehold flats in older London buildings suffer from roof-related water ingress. A roof survey can identify problems early.
🔑 Key point: A professionally prepared condition report is one of the most cost-effective investments a landlord can make in the current regulatory environment.
The PRS Database: What's Coming Later in 2026
The government has confirmed that a Private Rented Sector (PRS) database is due to launch later in 2026. This database is expected to require landlords to register their properties and demonstrate compliance with legal standards.
While full details are yet to be confirmed via gov.uk, London landlords should:
- Begin gathering documentation about their properties now
- Ensure all required certificates (gas safety, electrical installation, EPC) are current
- Keep records of all tenancy-related communications, including Information Sheet delivery
Your Compliance Checklist for May 2026
Use this checklist to ensure you are meeting your obligations under the Renters' Rights Act:
- ✅ Identify all tenancies that began before 1 May 2026
- ✅ Obtain the official Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet from gov.uk
- ✅ Serve the Information Sheet on all qualifying tenants by 31 May 2026
- ✅ Confirm delivery in writing and retain a copy
- ✅ Review your rent review process — Section 13 notices only, once per year
- ✅ Remove any fixed-term clauses from future tenancy agreements
- ✅ Ensure your property meets required standards (EPC, gas, electrical)
- ✅ Commission a Schedule of Condition for any new tenancy
- ✅ Prepare for PRS database registration later in 2026
FAQ
Q: Who does the 31 May 2026 Information Sheet deadline apply to?
A: It applies to landlords with most assured and assured shorthold tenancies that were in existence before 1 May 2026. Check gov.uk or consult a solicitor if you are unsure whether your tenancy qualifies.
Q: Where do I get the official Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet?
A: The document is published by the government on gov.uk. Do not use unofficial versions — always use the document issued by the government.
Q: Can I still increase rent under the Renters' Rights Act?
A: Yes, but only once every 12 months, and only by serving a valid Section 13 notice with the correct notice period. Rental bidding above the advertised rent is banned.
Q: What happens if I miss the 31 May 2026 deadline?
A: Failure to comply with the Act's requirements may affect your ability to use certain legal processes and could expose you to penalties. Seek legal advice immediately if you have missed the deadline.
Q: Does the Act apply to leasehold flats in Notting Hill?
A: Yes. The Renters' Rights Act applies to all assured and assured shorthold tenancies in England, including leasehold flats in prime central and west London.
Q: What is a Section 8 notice and when can I use it?
A: A Section 8 notice is a formal notice to quit served under the Housing Act 1988, citing one or more statutory grounds for possession — such as rent arrears or anti-social behaviour. Legal advice is essential before serving one.
Conclusion
The Renters Rights Act 2026 information sheet deadline 31 May is the most immediate compliance obligation facing London landlords today. Serving the government's Information Sheet on qualifying tenants before the end of May 2026 is a legal requirement — not a recommendation.
Beyond the deadline, the Act fundamentally changes how tenancies work: fixed terms are gone, Section 21 is abolished, rent increases are restricted, and discrimination against certain tenant groups is outlawful. For landlords of leasehold flats in Notting Hill and across prime central London, this is also the moment to ensure properties are in demonstrably good condition.
Actionable next steps:
- Download the official Information Sheet from gov.uk and serve it on qualifying tenants immediately
- Review all tenancy agreements for compliance with the new periodic tenancy rules
- Commission a Schedule of Condition or comprehensive condition report for any property without one
- Contact our RICS chartered surveyors in central London to discuss how we can support your compliance and property management needs
Notting Hill Surveyors is a RICS-regulated firm serving prime central and west London. Our team works with landlords, freeholders, and managing agents across the area. Get in touch to discuss your requirements.
