posted 30th May 2026
By Marie Shepherd, Shepherd & White Letting Agents
With the 31 May deadline fast approaching, landlords across England should be reviewing their obligations under Phase 1 of the Renters' Rights Act 2025. While much of the discussion has focused on the headline reforms, many landlords are still grappling with the practical changes that affect their day-to-day responsibilities.
At Shepherd & White, one thing we have always believed is that landlords benefit most from personal, one-to-one advice rather than generic guidance. Every property, tenancy and landlord circumstance is different, which is why we take the time to talk through individual situations and help our clients understand exactly what action they need to take.
Over recent weeks, three recurring areas of confusion have emerged.
1. The Information Sheet Must Be Given to Existing Tenants
Since 1 May 2026, landlords have been required to provide the government's new Information Sheet to every existing tenant. The document can be delivered by email, post or in person and is available free of charge from GOV.UK.
One of the most common misconceptions is that a letting agent will automatically take care of this requirement. In reality, the legal responsibility often remains with the landlord unless specific arrangements have been made.
This is exactly why personalised advice matters. A quick conversation can establish whether your management agreement covers compliance obligations or whether further action is needed on your part.
With significant penalties available for non-compliance, this is not something landlords should leave until the last minute.
2. Pet Requests Require a Formal Written Process
The new legislation also introduces a structured process for handling tenant requests to keep pets.
Landlords are now required to provide a written response within 28 days, and any refusal must be supported by clear reasons.
Many landlords are still managing these conversations informally through text messages, WhatsApp conversations or verbal discussions. While this may feel more straightforward, it does not provide the documentation required under the new framework.
In our experience, landlords often understand the principle but are unsure about the practical steps. Having access to one-to-one support can make the process much simpler and ensure the correct procedures are followed from the outset.
3. Existing Section 21 Notices Have a Time Limit
Another issue causing uncertainty relates to Section 21 notices served before 1 May 2026.
These notices remain valid only until 31 July 2026. Landlords who still intend to seek possession after that date may need to proceed under the new statutory possession grounds instead.
Many landlords are understandably unsure how the transition affects their individual circumstances. The answer often depends on timing, tenancy status and future plans for the property.
This is where tailored advice can be invaluable. Rather than relying on general information that may or may not apply to your situation, landlords should seek guidance specific to their own tenancy arrangements.
Every Landlord's Situation Is Different
What we are seeing is not widespread non-compliance. In most cases, landlords are simply working from processes that were perfectly acceptable before the legislation changed.
The challenge is that the rules have evolved, and assumptions that were once safe can now create unnecessary risk.
At Shepherd & White, our approach has always been built around personal relationships and one-to-one advice. We know that landlords do not just need information; they need clarity about how that information applies to them and their properties.
With the end-of-May deadline approaching, now is the time to review your position, ensure key obligations have been met and seek professional guidance where needed.
If you would like straightforward, personalised advice about your responsibilities under the Renters' Rights Act, the Shepherd & White team would be delighted to help.
