Q: I understand that there are going to be new rules for tenancies after 1 May 2026 when the Renters Rights Act comes into force. But what am I supposed to do about existing tenancies?  Should I give the tenants a new tenancy agreement?

A: The government has published an information sheet which can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-renters-rights-act-information-sheet-2026. This must be served on existing tenants before 31 May 2026.  Provided you do that, you do not have to give the tenants a new tenancy agreement.

Be aware, though, that if you fail to serve the information sheet by the deadline, this is a breach of the regulations for which you can be fined by your Local Authority (if they find out) up to £7,000.

For this reason, you need to keep proof that you have served it.  For example, if you give it to tenants during an inspection visit, get them to sign and date a copy of the information form to confirm receipt.

If that is not possible, do what you can. But consider this.  If your tenants want to do you an ill turn and tell the Local Authority (after 31 May)  that they have not received the information sheet – what are you going to do to prove them wrong?

Q: I have a really nice tenancy agreement that I have been using for a long time.  Can I carry on using it after 1 May 2026?