The countdown to May's implementation of the Renters' Rights Act has prompted the government to offer student landlords six tips on how to prepare.
That includes a 31 May deadline to write to their student tenants if they intend to regain possession using new powers under the Act.
The guidance points to the transitional window around Ground 4A requiring landlords to notify tenants in writing before any notice can be served.
Once that step is completed, two months' notice can be issued between 1 May and 30 July 2026 where properties are needed back for the next academic cycle.
However, the shorter notice period applies only during this transition period.
Transition for student lets
After 30 July, the minimum notice period rises to four months, bringing student lets into line with the longer-term rules set out in the legislation.
The temporary change is intended to keep the usual flow of properties returning to the market before September. Other rules in the Act must be met, including handing existing tenants a government information sheet explaining how the Act affects them by 31 May.
Guidance for landlords
The chief policy officer at the National Residential Landlords Association, Chris Norris, said: "With phase one of the Renters' Rights Act's implementation set to begin on 1 May, now is certainly the time for all landlords to double check that they are prepared for its arrival."
He added that the government's six tips for preparation offers helpful guidance and will help landlords avoid any pitfalls by the legislation they may have overlooked.
Ben Twomey, the chief executive of Generation Rent, said: "The Renters' Rights Act is a major step towards re-balancing power between renters and landlords, giving us greater security in our homes.
"Ahead of the new law coming into action, it's vital renters take the time to understand what these new rights are and how to respond if landlords break the rules."
New tenancies paperwork
For new tenancies agreed on or after 1 May, written details will be required, including the rent, deposit details, responsibilities and the landlord's contact information.
Verbal agreements with a tenant, meanwhile, will need formalising.
Section 21 will disappear from 1 May, removing the 'no-fault' route, with landlords instead required to rely on Section 8, which is being widened to include selling or moving back into the property, alongside existing grounds such as arrears or anti-social behaviour.
Rules on rent rises
Rent increases will be limited to once every 12 months, require at least two months' notice, and must be issued through Section 13, even where discussions have already taken place.
Advertising rules mean that asking rents must be clearly stated and offers above that figure cannot be invited or accepted.
Upfront rent is capped at one month and can only be taken once the agreement is signed.
There are also restrictions on the refusal of potential tenants because they have children or receive benefits, meaning listings and letting agent communications will need updating.
Landlords are expected to hold clear documentation covering safety certificates, EPCs, deposit records, licences and repairs, with councils given stronger powers to investigate once the rules are in force.
Student accommodation transition
Simon Thompson, the managing director of Accommodation for Students, said: "Thankfully, student landlords now have a one-off transition window to align their tenancies with the new legal framework before the next academic cycle.
"The key step is issuing written confirmation to tenants before the end of May, which then allows a shorter notice period to be used during a limited summer period.
"Miss that timing and the longer notice rules apply."
He added: "Beyond possession, the changes bring tighter structure to how tenancies are documented and managed.
"Essentially, student landlords need to act early, keep clear records, and ensure their processes meet the Act's requirements before the new academic lettings cycle begins."
More information
The information sheet about the Renters' Rights Act that landlords and their agents must give to tenants can be found here. The government stresses that only this PDF document will be valid. The full details of what must be included in the tenancy agreements can be found here.
