On Wednesday 25th February 2026, Batcheller Monkhouse welcomed landlords from across West Sussex and the wider region to Brookfield Barn in Horsham for our early evening Renters’ Rights Act Seminar. With the venue’s tranquil lakeside setting providing a relaxed backdrop, attendees gathered to hear clear, practical guidance on the biggest overhaul of private rented sector legislation in a generation.
As the first major phase of the Renters’ Rights Act approaches on 1st May 2026, landlords are increasingly seeking reassurance and expertise. This seminar delivered exactly that – timely updates, expert explanations, and tailored advice as the sector prepares for significant change.
A Strong Turnout and Engaged Audience
Attendance was excellent, with landlords travelling from across the region to join us for an evening of discussion and guidance. The level of engagement throughout the seminar was exceptional, with thoughtful questions and in-depth conversations continuing well after the main presentation concluded.
Attendees were especially keen to understand how the new framework will affect existing assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs), document requirements, compliance checks, and the incoming systems designed to regulate the sector more closely.
Understanding the Three-Phase Rollout
A key focus of the seminar was the three-stage introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, ensuring landlords are not only prepared for 1st May 2026, but also have visibility of what is coming later in the year and beyond.
Phase One – May 2026
The first phase focuses on tenancy reform, including:
- All Housing Act AST tenancies becoming periodic
- Limits on advance rental payments
- A ban on rent bidding
- Rent increases only via Section 13 (once annually)
- Strengthened anti-discrimination measures
- New guidance around renting with pets
- Automatic conversion of all existing ASTs to the new system
- Requirement to issue updated written information to tenants
Phase Two – Late 2026
The second phase introduces the new regulatory infrastructure:
- Landlord Ombudsman – giving tenants access to a formal redress scheme
- PRS Database – requiring landlords to register each rental property and upload compliance documents (EPC, EICR, Gas Safety Certificates)
Phase Three – 2035–2037
This final phase will follow consultation and focuses on property condition standards:
- Decent Homes Standard
- Awaab’s Law, targeting damp, mould and health risks
Expert Insights from Our Lettings Specialists
During the seminar, our lettings team provided a detailed breakdown of what landlords must do ahead of May. Topics included:
- The transition of all ASTs into the new system
- Documentation and compliance requirements
- Managing rent reviews under the new rules
- Tenant communication and expectation-setting
- Long-term property investment planning
We also introduced our tiered service offering, designed to ensure landlords can choose the level of support they need to remain compliant at every stage of the legislation.
Additionally, landlords welcomed information about our new Rent Protection and Legal Expenses policy, offering peace of mind should the unexpected occur.
A Valuable and Productive Evening
Feedback following the event has been overwhelmingly positive. A huge thank you to Brookfield Barn for providing a superb venue – the peaceful, welcoming setting enabled in-depth conversations and personalised support from our team, ideal for landlords seeking clarity and guidance.
As the sector prepares for the first changes coming into force on 1st May 2026, Batcheller Monkhouse remains committed to supporting landlords through every stage of the Renters’ Rights Act rollout.
Need Support Navigating the Renters’ Rights Act?
If you were unable to attend the seminar – or if you would like tailored advice on what the new legislation means for your properties – our experienced Lettings Team is here to help.
Call: 01444 415151
Email: l.allan@batchellermonkhouse.com
We look forward to supporting you as these important changes take shape.
For further reading: Explainer: everything you need to know about the new Renters’ Rights Act – MHCLG in the Media