Significant changes to the private rental sector are coming into effect from today.

The Renters’ Rights Act, which applies throughout England from this date, brings in open-ended tenancies and restricts rent rises to a single annual adjustment. Tenants will need to be given a minimum of two months’ warning before any increase takes place.

Matthew Harwood, a home insurance specialist at Confused.com, described the new legislation as a welcome development for those renting their homes, stating it provides more stability during a period of economic strain.

He explained that the changes offer greater adaptability should situations shift, while establishing clearer ongoing protections for tenants, and simultaneously giving landlords a more consistent structure for managing properties over time.

Research conducted by Confused.com indicates that more than three-quarters of renters report that their rent payments impact their financial situation.

Mr Harwood noted that these reforms should therefore make it simpler to organise finances and budget over longer periods without regular unpredictability, while still permitting landlords to assess their pricing in a methodical and foreseeable manner.

He emphasised that both tenants and landlords must understand their new obligations as these measures take hold.

Landlords were also warned that failing to supply the required Information Sheet by May 31, 2026, could lead to penalties reaching £7,000.

Mr Harwood added that this represents a chance for tenants to assess whether their contents insurance provides sufficient coverage.