Renting in England

Checked 16 October 2026. Applies to private renting in England.

Right to Rent

Before a tenancy starts, landlords or their agents in England must check that every adult tenant has the right to rent. British and Irish citizens show a passport or other accepted document. Many other people prove their status online with a share code. See GOV.UK – Prove your right to rent.

What you can be charged

Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords and agents can only charge certain payments: rent, a refundable tenancy deposit (capped at 5 weeks' rent where annual rent is under £50,000, or 6 weeks' if £50,000 or more), a refundable holding deposit (capped at 1 week's rent), and certain other permitted payments. See our fees page and GOV.UK – Tenant Fees Act.

Deposit protection

Your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme. See GOV.UK – Tenancy deposit protection.

The Renters' Rights Act: what changed on 1 May 2026

• Private assured and assured shorthold tenancies became assured periodic (rolling) tenancies, with no fixed end date.
• Landlords can no longer serve Section 21 "no-fault" eviction notices. They must use a Section 8 notice with a legal ground for possession.
• Tenants can usually leave by giving 2 months' notice.

Sources: GOV.UK – Ending a tenancy; The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (Commencement No. 2) Regulations 2026. Further parts of the Act are being brought in over time.

Common questions

Can my landlord still use a Section 21 notice?

No. In England a landlord cannot serve a Section 21 notice on or after 1 May 2026. They need a legal reason (a ground for possession) and must use a Section 8 notice.

How much notice do I give to leave?

Under the new rules tenants can usually end the tenancy by giving 2 months' notice, unless a shorter period is agreed.

Sources checked 16 October 2026: GOV.UK pages linked above. Rules change — always confirm with your solicitor.