First Renters’ Rights Act Changes Take Effect on 27 December 2025
Posted on Monday, 15 December, 2025
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces stronger powers for Local Housing Authorities (LHAs) to investigate whether landlords or letting agents are in violation of key housing laws. These provisions apply to private rented accommodations and cover issues such as illegal eviction, poor property standards, and non-compliance with regulations.
Requesting Information from a “Relevant Person”
The LHA can ask any person who has acted as a landlord, agent, licensor, marketer, or has had an interest in a property within the last 12 months to provide information.
The request must be in writing and include:
- Reference to Section 114 of the Act
- The consequences of failing to comply
- Specific details on the format, deadline, and recipient of the information
Failure to respond without a valid reason or providing false or misleading information could result in a fine.
Requesting Information from Any Person or Organisation
If an LHA reasonably suspects a breach, they can request information from any person or organisation under Section 115. If the individual or organisation refuses, the LHA can apply to a court to compel them to provide the required information.
It is essential to maintain clear, organised records on lettings, management, marketing, client money, and landlord/tenant data, as documents may be requested, copied, or seized. Always take written notices under Sections 114 or 115 seriously, as failure to comply could lead to penalties. If in doubt, seek advice.
Access to Business Premises
Under Sections 118/120, LHAs can enter business premises with 24 hours’ written notice for a routine inspection, or they may enter without notice using a warrant if prior notice would hinder the inspection or if access is refused. LHAs are allowed to take photographs or recordings and may seize any relevant documents they believe are evidence.
Access to Residential Premises
Section 126 allows LHAs to enter privately rented homes to investigate potential breaches. This can be done either with 24 hours’ written notice or with a warrant.
It’s important to note the difference between the rules for accessing “business premises” (e.g., office spaces, record centres) and “residential premises” (e.g., rented homes). The entry rules, notice requirements, and warrant criteria are distinct for each.
CMP Scheme Investigations
The Act grants LHAs the authority to check whether letting agents are part of a recognised Client Money Protection (CMP) scheme as part of their compliance checks.
Using Information from Tax, Benefits, and Deposit Schemes
LHAs can use data from Housing Benefit, Council Tax, and tenancy deposit schemes to investigate matters like multiple Housing Benefit claims from the same address, overcrowding, or whether a property is rented or licensed.
LHA Powers Landlords and Letting Agents Should Be Aware Of
For more details, read the UK Government guidance on investigatory powers →
Other Changes Taking Effect on 27 December
- Local authorities will be required to report to the Secretary of State for Housing on their enforcement activities related to the legislation.
- Abandonment provisions from the Housing and Planning Act 2016, which have never been implemented, will be repealed and removed from the legislation, meaning they can no longer be enacted in the future.
When Will the Rest of the Renters’ Rights Act Take Effect?
Other sections of the Renters’ Rights Act will be rolled out in phases, with additional details on commencement and regulations still to be announced.
Sources and further reading;
- (GOV.UK)
- (Propertymark)
This information is not legal advice, and should not be treated as such. Please use only as guidance.
