New rent rules in England and Ireland impact nomads across Europe

Rent rules in England and Ireland are tightening

England’s Renters’ Rights Act 2025 took effect on May 1, 2026 and ended Section 21 no-fault evictions, converted assured shorthold tenancies into open-ended periodic tenancies and capped rent hikes at once a year with two months’ notice. It also bans bidding wars, limits rent in advance to one month and requires landlords to consider pet requests.

Ireland’s Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026 applies to new tenancies from March 1, 2026. It sets six-year minimum duration tenancies for most new leases, limits annual rent increases to CPI or 2%, whichever is lower and allows market rent resets in limited cases.

Nomads and expats face different trade-offs

Long-term renters get more stability in both countries. Expats also gain stronger eviction protection, while landlords in England must give tenants an official information sheet by May 31, 2026 or face fines of up to £7,000.

Digital nomads and travelers have less room to move around. England’s open-ended tenancies can clash with short assignments, while Ireland’s six-year terms shrink the pool of 3- to 12-month rentals, with some available units priced around €1,500 to €2,000 a month. Short stays under 21 days in Ireland still fall under separate rules.

Deadlines and fees to track now

Landlords in England can still start possession proceedings tied to old Section 21 notices only until July 31, 2026. Ireland also requires RTB registration at €40 per tenancy and shifts agent fees to landlords.

For nomads sorting short-term housing, that means checking whether a stay fits local tenancy rules before signing. For updates on shifting entry and stay rules, see our visa updates and read our full Europe guide for the complete picture.