Editorial review: 15 October 2026. This article retains its original archive date and now reflects the main private assured tenancy reforms operating in England from 1 May 2026.
Review the tenancy file
Assured periodic tenancies operate on a rolling basis. Existing written agreements did not need reissuing; information-sheet duties applied instead. Entirely verbal arrangements required written key terms. Check transitional cases separately.
Create a file for each tenancy containing the agreement, deposit records, required documents and dated correspondence. Give each outstanding task an owner and a follow-up date.
Check advertising and applications
Written property advertising needs an asking rent. Higher offers cannot be encouraged or accepted. Do not exclude applicants because they receive benefits or have children. Consider pet requests properly and record any valid reason for refusal.
Read your advert and application messages together: a compliant headline does not correct contradictory instructions later in the process.
Use the correct rent procedure
Rent increases require the section 13 process using Form 4A and at least two months’ notice. They cannot occur more than annually; tenants can challenge an above-market proposal.
Keep comparable evidence and the notice in the same file so the proposed amount and timing can be checked.
Treat possession as a legal process
New possession action requires a lawful ground under section 8, the correct notice and, where necessary, court proceedings. The notice period depends on the ground. Deposit compliance also matters.
Obtain case-specific advice before serving a notice rather than adapting an old template without checking it.
Source: GOV.UK, Renters’ Rights Act overview for landlords. This checklist is general information.