We are urging North West farmers and rural property owners not to overlook the upcoming Renters’ Rights Act, which comes into force on 1 May 2026. The Act introduces significant changes to the tenancy and occupation of residential property and will affect landlords across the board.
At Oakwood Property Services, we are seeing first-hand that many landlords remain unaware of the scale of these changes. This legislation represents the most substantial shift in tenancy law since 1989, when Assured Shorthold Tenancies were first introduced.
Informal rural lettings are not exempt
Rural lettings are often more informal than those in towns, sometimes linked to local employment or long-standing relationships. However, this does not remove the requirement to comply fully with the new legislation.
If anything, landlords who have taken a more relaxed approach historically may now need to formalise processes and documentation.
Increased compliance and new requirements
Many landlords are familiar with core obligations such as annual gas safety checks and periodic electrical inspections. However, the volume of required paperwork has grown significantly in recent years, and it will increase further under the new rules.
A key requirement is the introduction of a new notice that must be served on tenants before the end of May. Failure to comply could result in significant penalties, with fines starting from £7,000.
Impact on the rental market
We are already seeing the impact of these changes on the rental market. Some landlords are choosing to exit the sector, reducing the supply of available properties and continuing to place upward pressure on rents.
For those remaining, this may present an opportunity to review rental levels. Increased income can help offset rising compliance and management costs.
A major shift for landlords
Our Associate Surveyor, Lydia Sirovica, explains:
“Many landowners find the changes daunting, but they can be managed with the right systems in place. This is a fundamental shift. Fixed term tenancies will come to an end, and tenants will have greater flexibility to leave with two months’ notice.
Landlords can still regain possession in certain circumstances, but only where they have complied fully with all legislative requirements.”
Additional considerations for farmworker housing
There is also separate legislation governing housing provided to farmworkers. It is important that landlords understand how these rules interact with the Renters’ Rights Act, particularly where occupancy is linked to employment.
How we can help
We are offering a fixed-fee residential tenancy review to help landlords:
- Ensure full compliance with current and upcoming legislation
- Identify any gaps in documentation or processes
- Understand the practical implications of the new rules
- Plan ahead with confidence
If you own or manage rural property, now is the time to act.
Get in touch with us to arrange your tenancy review and ensure you are fully prepared for the changes ahead.
