Millions of renters across England – including those in 7,115 private rental homes in Chesterfield – are now benefiting from the biggest strengthening of renters’ rights in over 40 years, as the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force today (1 May 2026).
Around 7,115 private rental homes in Chesterfield will now have greater security and protection under the new law, which delivers long-awaited reforms to make renting fairer, safer and more secure.
The landmark changes include a ban on Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, ending the practice of tenants being evicted without a reason. This will help families put down roots in their communities and reduce the risk of homelessness.
Renters will also benefit from limits on rent increase to once per year, a ban on bidding wars for properties, and a cap of one month’s rent for upfront payments. The reforms also introduce greater flexibility for tenants, with private renters able to end tenancies with two months’ notice. Landlords must now also reasonably consider requests for pets.
Toby Perkins, Labour MP for Chesterfield, said: “Too many renters in Chesterfield have been living with the constant fear of losing their home through no fault of their own.
“These historic reforms will make a real difference to people locally – giving renters the security they deserve and protecting them from unfair practices and rogue landlords.
The biggest cause of homelessness is unfair evictions. Of course, I realise there are also renters who aren’t fair with their landlords and we need to ensure that good quality landlords get the support they need from the courts and take the rogue landlords to task.
“I’m proud that this Labour government is delivering the biggest upgrade to renters’ rights in a generation.”
The new law also introduces tougher enforcement powers for councils, with fines of up to £40,000 for landlords who break the rules, ensuring that rogue operators can no longer evade accountability.
Alongside these reforms, the government is investing in stronger enforcement and modernising the courts system to make it easier for both tenants and landlords to access justice.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- The Renters’ Rights Act came into force on 1 May 2026.
- The reforms apply to private renters across England.
- Eviction from private rented home is the number one cause of homelessness in England.