Whether you’re letting a cottage in Callington or a student flat in Falmouth, the Renters’ Rights Act will affect every assured shorthold tenancy in England including those already underway.
This landmark change reshapes how homes are advertised, how rents are increased, how notice is served, and how landlords manage their legal responsibilities.
Here’s what Cornwall and Devon landlords need to know.
The Renters’ Rights Act has now passed into law, with an implementation date of 1st May 2026. When it takes effect, the new rules will apply retrospectively to all tenancies not just new ones.
This means nearly every private landlord in Cornwall and West Devon will need to adapt.
This is the biggest shift in lettings law in a generation.
Key changes include:
Scrapping fixed term tenancies - replaced with periodic-only tenancies
Ending Section 21 evictions
New rules for rent increases and Section 13 notices
A national landlord portal (Private Rented Sector Database)
Stronger rights for tenants with pets
Stricter property standards under the Decent Homes Standard
If you let property in Cornwall or West Devon, the Renters' Rights Act will affect you no matter when the tenancy began or how it’s managed.
This is the perfect time to:
Audit your tenancies - including rent review dates, terms, and notice procedures
Review your Section 13 process and rent history
Update your property standards especially under Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard
Get professional help if you self-manage
Many landlords we speak to have not increased rent in several years. The upcoming changes will tighten when and how increases are allowed so it’s worth acting now.
We’re already working with landlords across Cornwall and West Devon to prepare for these changes. If you’re unsure where to start, or it’s all starting to feel a bit overwhelming, we’re here to help. Our team can audit your tenancies, review rent levels, and ensure you’re compliant ahead of time.
And if you’d rather hand it all over, many of our clients find the rent uplift more than covers our fee. Let’s talk.
