3 changes nomads in the United Kingdom face under the Renters' Rights Act

What changed in England’s rental market

England has now abolished Section 21 evictions under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, which took effect on May 1, 2026. Landlords can no longer end a tenancy without a legal reason and all existing fixed-term rentals automatically convert to rolling monthly tenancies.

The first phase also tightened rent rules. Landlords can raise rent only once every 12 months with two months’ notice and tenants can challenge increases they say are above market. The law also blocks discrimination against families and people on benefits and landlords can't unreasonably refuse pets.

Why expats and nomads should care

The changes matter most for expats and digital nomads renting in England, where some landlords previously asked for up to 12 months’ rent in advance. Under the new rules, rent in advance is capped at one month after the tenancy is signed, while deposits are limited to 5 weeks’ rent for most homes and 6 weeks’ rent for higher-rent properties.

Existing tenants are covered too. A fixed-term lease now rolls over automatically, so renters don’t have to time work assignments around a lease end date, though they still need to give formal notice when leaving. Nomad news will keep tracking the rollout as enforcement expands.

What renters should watch next

Section 21 notices served before May 1 can still move forward if court action began by July 31, 2026. After that, landlords must rely on specific legal grounds, including selling the property, moving in themselves or serious rent arrears.

Local councils now oversee enforcement, with fines ranging from £7,000 to £40,000 for serious or repeat breaches. Tenants can also seek rent repayment orders if landlords break the rules. Read our full United Kingdom guide for the complete picture.