The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (formerly known as the Renters’ Rights Bill) received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025 and is set to transform the private rental sector in England. Major changes kick in from 1 May 2026, with phased implementation following. As we head into 2026, landlords in Devon face a new landscape of greater tenant security, stricter compliance requirements, and the need for robust property management strategies.
At Your Home Lets, South Devon’s independent, award-winning letting agents, we specialise in residential lettings and professional property management across Ivybridge and a 25-mile radius, including Plymouth and surrounding Devon areas. As proud members of NAEA Propertymark, we hold ourselves to higher industry standards than the law requires, with our property experts receiving regular training to stay ahead of complex legislative changes. Backed by a Client Money Protection scheme, we deliver open, honest service at fair costs – always with our “No let = No Fee” commitment.
Here’s your essential 2026 landlord guide to navigating these updates and why partnering with a professional like Your Home Lets makes all the difference.
1. The End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions
From 1 May 2026, landlords can no longer use Section 21 notices to regain possession without a valid reason. All tenancies shift to periodic assured tenancies (no more fixed terms for new lets, and existing ASTs convert automatically). Evictions must now rely on strengthened Section 8 grounds, such as rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or selling the property (with expanded notice periods in many cases).
How professional management helps: Our team ensures your tenancy agreements are fully compliant from day one, with clear documentation and proactive rent monitoring to support valid Section 8 claims if needed. Regular training keeps us ahead of evolving possession rules, reducing risks of invalid notices or court delays.
2. Periodic Tenancies Become the Norm
Fixed-term contracts disappear for most private rentals. Tenants gain more security and flexibility to stay long-term or leave with proper notice, while landlords lose the automatic end-of-term leverage.
Devon impact: In high-demand areas like Ivybridge and Plymouth, this could mean longer tenancies, but only if properties meet rising standards and rent disputes are handled professionally.
Our advantage: We handle the transition smoothly for existing tenancies, advising on notice periods and rent review clauses to protect your income stream.
3. Rent Increases: Stricter Rules
ase will make it easier for tenants to raise issues, with landlords required to register properties and provide clearer information.
Your Home Lets benefit: We manage everything, from tenant referencing and deposit protection to ongoing communication, reducing complaints and ensuring disputes are resolved quickly and fairly.
Why Choose Professional Management in 2026?
The reforms aim to rebalance the market toward tenants, but well-managed properties thrive under the new rules. Landlords who partner with experts liRent reviews are limited to once per year, requiring a Section 13 notice and two months’ warning. Tenants can challenge “unfair” increases more easily.
Professional edge: Your Home Lets provides expert rental appraisals (free for landlords) based on local Devon market data, helping set competitive yet sustainable rents that stand up to scrutiny.
4. Higher Property Standards and Compliance
The Act strengthens obligations around decent homes, with phased introduction of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector. Energy efficiency rules (EPC ratings) tighten further, with minimum C requirements rolling out for new tenancies soon and broader application later.
Other changes include limits on advance rent demands, stronger pet and family discrimination protections, and a new PRS database plus ombudsman scheme in later phases.
Why expertise matters: Non-compliance risks fines, disputes, or voided tenancies. As NAEA Propertymark members, we conduct rigorous checks, coordinate maintenance, EPC updates, and safety certifications (gas, electrical, smoke/CO alarms) so your property stays fully compliant.
5. Enhanced Redress and Transparency
A new ombudsman and databke us avoid pitfalls, maintain steady rental income, and enjoy peace of mind.
Our Fully Managed service (from 8% inc. VAT) covers tenant finding, rent collection, maintenance coordination, compliance checks, and legislative updates. For lighter needs, we offer Tenant Find + Rent Collection or Tenant Find Only options.
With our local knowledge of the Devon market – from Ivybridge family homes to Plymouth investment properties – we deliver exceptional results while keeping you informed every step.
Ready to future-proof your Devon rental? Contact Your Home Lets today at 01752 896813 or via our website for a free rental appraisal and personalised advice on the 2026 changes.
Your property deserves expert care in this evolving landscape – let us handle the details so you can focus on the returns.
Your Home Lets – Award-winning, independent, and fully committed to South Devon landlords.
