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Clear Advice From Your Local Lettings Experts


The lettings market and landlord legislation continue to evolve. Book a free consultation with your local Stags lettings office this month to discuss rental values, compliance requirements, and how to get the best return from your property.

Why book a free consultation with us?


Clear Advice: Understand your property's rental potential and key considerations for landlords.


Local Knowledge: Tap into local market expertise to help maximise your property's performance.


Tailored Services: Get advice and support tailored to your property and investment objectives.


Peace of Mind: Navigate changing legislation with confidence, guided by trusted local experts.
 


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“I have brought and sold several properties with Harriet. She is an absolute joy to deal with, making the entire process smooth and stress free. I wouldn’t hesitate to highly recommend Harriet and her team at Stags Dorchester. Both incredibly knowledgeable about the local area, extremely professional, and the nicest estate agents you could wish for!”

- M.Denny

“We had a fantastic experience buying our home through Stags Dorchester. Our point of contact, Harriet, was a joy… professional, patient and kept us updated every step of the way. All of the team in Dorchester seem to work together seamlessly. Highly recommend Harriet and Dorchester Stags.”

- Christine

“They were the loveliest of sellers and really helpful, giving us loads of advice on how best to care for them [the pigs]. The pigs are lovely, really healthy and happy. Thank you for the auction. ”

- C.Trevail

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Letting your Property: Essential Legal Requirements and Landlord Responsibilities

With more than 150 pieces of legislation affecting the private rented sector, staying compliant can be a challenge. Learn the essentials.

Top 5 Renters' Rights Act FAQs for landlords

Section 21 notices - What’s changing?

From 1 May 2026, landlords in the private rented sector in England will no longer be able to use Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 to evict tenants. Landlords will be able to evict tenants who have an assured periodic tenancy using a Section 8 notice.

What new information do I need to give to existing tenants?

For existing tenancies (created before 1 May 2026), landlords won’t need to change a current tenancy agreement, if one is in place, or issue a new one. Instead, landlords with existing tenancies will need to provide tenants with a copy of the UK Government published ‘Information Sheet’ on or before 31 May 2026. This was published in March 2026. It must be given to every tenant, either as a printed hard copy by post or by hand, or sending the PDF electronically as an attachment by email or text.

What is the impact of the Renters’ Rights Act on new tenancy agreements signed on or after 1 May 2026?

For new tenancies created on or after 1 May 2026, landlords will need to provide certain information about the tenancy to their tenants in writing. On 20 January 2026, the UK Government published the draft statutory instrument (SI) on the written information landlords must provide to tenants at the outset of tenancies.

Can I still ask for rent to be paid in advance?

No, on and after 1 May 2026, a landlord will only be able to require up to one month’s rent (or 28 days’ rent for tenancies with rental periods of less than one month) once a tenancy agreement has been signed and before it starts. The Renters’ Rights Act also amends the Housing Act 1988 so that, once a tenancy starts, a landlord will be unable 7 to enforce any terms in a tenancy agreement that require rent to be paid in advance of the agreed due date.

What are the reasons a landlord can reasonably refuse a pet?

The legislation does not set out details on what a reasonable reason would be to refuse a pet. However, guidance from the UK Government says it may be reasonable to refuse a request in some circumstances, such as:

  • Another tenant has an allergy.
  • The property is too small for a large pet or several pets.
  • The pet is illegal to own.
  • If the landlord is a leaseholder, and the freeholder does not allow pets.

It will not usually be reasonable to refuse if the landlord:

  • Does not like pets.
  • Has had issues with tenants who had pets in the past.
  • Has had previous tenants with pets who damaged the property.
  • Has general concerns about potential damage in the future.
  • Thinks a pet might affect future rentals.
  • Knows the tenant needs an assistance animal, such as a guide dog.

Get the facts at our Renters' Rights Hub

Stay informed and compliant with the latest Renters’ Rights Act changes by exploring our Renters’ Rights Hub.