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Can your landlord refuse a pet or raise your rent? England’s rules have changed
Landlords must set a single advertised rent and can raise it only once a year, while tenants gain stronger rights to challenge increases and request pets.
On May 1, 2026, the Renters' Rights Act implemented major reforms in England, significantly strengthening protections for tenants across the private rental sector.
Part of the Government's rental reform programme, the legislation abolished Section 21 "no-fault" notices, requiring landlords to rely on specific legal grounds to seek possession.
Reforms mandate that landlords can raise rent only once annually with two months' notice, while advertised prices must be specific and tenants may request pet permission fairly considered.
The legislation prohibits discrimination against tenants with children or those receiving benefits, while most existing assured shorthold tenancies have transitioned to a rolling structure.
Property owners should review insurance policies and maintain clear records to prepare for new responsibilities; estate agent Purplebricks offers free valuations to help landlords assess market value.