New updates as Renters’ Rights goes live

New guidance has been added to our Renters’ Rights Hub today as the first phase of the legislation goes live. 

We have made a number of updates across the site to mark the switch over to Assured Periodic Tenancies (APTs).
This includes removing any Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreements from the site. ASTs cannot be used from today and you must use an Assured Periodic Tenancy agreement when creating a tenancy from now on.

Rent increases

As of today, the only way to increase the rent on an assured tenancy is by first serving a Section 13 notice (Form 4A). Tenants have the right to challenge a rent increase after receiving this notice. We have detailed guidance on how you can manage this process, along with helpful templates available here.

Repossessions

It is also no longer possible to serve a Section 21 notice, or a Section 8 notice using the rules that existed before 1st May. However, you can still apply to court if you served a notice already. It’s important to check any notice you served is valid before proceeding to court and we have guidance on how to check both notices here.  

Those of you who have used one of these repossession notices ahead of yesterday’s final deadline are reminded you have until 31st of July at the latest to make your application to court. 

If you miss this deadline the notice will no longer be valid.

Student landlords

Students landlords are also reminded that you have from today until 31st July if you wish to use the special dispensation – in place for this year only – allowing those of you who signed the tenancy before today (1st May) to serve two-months’ notice when asking tenants to leave under ground 4a (the student possession ground). 
This was introduced to ensure homes will be available for the next cohort of students starting courses this Autumn – but will only be available until 31st July, for possession for between 1st June and 30th September. You can find out more about this here.

More information

• To access the landlord starter pack click here. 
• To visit our Renters' Rights Hub, packed with information and resources to help you manage the transition, click here.  
• We have also developed an exclusive Navigator tool, offering you your personalised "to-do list” tailored to your needs, which can be accessed here.  
• The NRLA's award-winning training academy runs a comprehensive Renters' Rights Act training offer. Click here to book your place.