The Renters’ Rights Act: What Every Landlord Needs to Know in 2026

The private rental sector is undergoing one of the biggest legislative reforms in decades. The Renters’ Rights Act is reshaping how landlords operate, manage risk, and structure their property portfolios.

If you are a landlord in Portsmouth, Hampshire, or beyond, it is no longer enough to “do what you’ve always done.” The landscape has changed — and preparation is essential.

This guide explains what the Renters’ Rights Act means for you and why three areas are now more important than ever:

• Professional letting management

• Rent guarantee insurance

• Limited company ownership structures

1. The End of “Casual” Landlording

The Renters’ Rights Act strengthens tenant protections significantly. While the exact implementation dates and final details continue to develop, key reforms include:

• The abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions

• Stronger tenancy security

• Greater enforcement powers for local authorities

• A shift toward periodic tenancies

• Increased scrutiny on property standards and landlord conduct

What this means in real terms:

Landlords will need to rely on robust legal grounds for possession.
Processes will need to be watertight.
Documentation and compliance will be critical.

One missed certificate, one incorrectly served notice, or one compliance error could delay possession for months.

This is why professional management is no longer a luxury — it is risk mitigation.

2. Why Using a Letting Agent Is Now a Strategic Decision

Many landlords historically self-managed to save fees. Under the new legislative environment, the risk profile has changed.

A professional letting agent will:

• Ensure compliance with ever-evolving legislation

• Keep safety certificates up to date

• Serve notices correctly and within legal frameworks

• Vet tenants thoroughly

• Manage arrears proactively

• Protect you from procedural errors that can invalidate possession claims

With Section 21 reforms, gaining possession for legitimate reasons (such as rent arrears or selling) will require stronger evidence and correct process.

Mistakes are costly. Delays are expensive.

A good agent protects your income, time, and mental bandwidth.

3. Rent Guarantee Insurance: Protecting Your Cash Flow

Under strengthened tenant rights, eviction for rent arrears may take longer than landlords are used to.

This means:

Your mortgage still needs paying.
Your insurance still needs paying.
Maintenance costs don’t stop.

Rent Guarantee Insurance covers:

• Missed rental payments

• Legal expenses related to eviction

• Potential court costs

In a more tenant-secure system, income protection becomes essential.

Professional agents often include or facilitate rent guarantee products that are legally compliant and backed by insurers who understand the current rental climate.

Think of it as portfolio protection rather than optional cover.

4. Should You Hold Property in a Limited Company?

Taxation changes over recent years — including mortgage interest relief restrictions — have already led many landlords to consider limited company structures.

With increasing regulation and liability exposure, the conversation has widened.

Potential advantages of a limited company structure can include:

• Corporation tax rates instead of higher-rate income tax

• Retained profits for reinvestment

• Clear separation of personal and business liability

• Potential estate planning advantages

However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Transferring properties can trigger:

• Stamp Duty Land Tax

• Capital Gains Tax

• Mortgage refinancing considerations

Landlords should seek independent tax advice before restructuring, but reviewing your ownership model is now a sensible strategic discussion.

5. Compliance Is Now Front and Centre

The Renters’ Rights Act is part of a broader shift toward:

• Higher property standards

• Greater tenant protection

• Stronger enforcement

• Increased transparency

Landlords who stay ahead of compliance will operate smoothly.

Landlords who delay may face:

• Fines

• Possession delays

• Reputational damage

• Increased stress and administrative burden

Professional portfolio reviews are becoming increasingly important.

6. What This Means for Portsmouth & Hampshire Landlords

Locally, we are seeing:

• Increased tenant awareness of their rights

• More selective tenant referencing

• Higher scrutiny of property condition

• Landlords reassessing risk exposure

The landlords who will thrive under the new system are those who:

• Operate professionally

• Protect their income

• Structure portfolios strategically

• Adapt early

Final Thoughts: This Is About Protection, Not Panic

The Renters’ Rights Act is not about landlords vs tenants.

It is about a maturing rental sector.

Well-run, compliant landlords will continue to succeed.

However, “casual” or reactive management carries significantly more risk in 2026 than it did five years ago.

If you would like to review:

• Your compliance position

• Rent guarantee options

• Your portfolio structure

• Or whether full management is now the right step

We are happy to have a confidential discussion.

📧 Contact us at: lettings@rokmarsh.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.rokmarsh.co.uk

ROK Marsh — Supporting landlords with clarity, compliance and confidence.