March was marked by fresh updates on rent challenge reforms and ongoing EPC targets, with policy changes continuing to shape landlord priorities.
As a reminder, we are now less than one month away from the implementation day of the Renters’ Rights Act.
Before we get to the news, let’s take a look at the latest rental market performance.
Rental Market Performance in March 2026
Here’s what happened in the English rental market last month:
- The average monthly price for a rental property rose 0.8% from £1,203 in February to £1,212 in March
- March’s average rent of £1,212 is up 2.4% compared to 2025 figures (£1,184)
- The average void duration remained at 22 days
- The base interest rate in the UK stayed at 3.75%
Government releases official RRA information sheet for tenants
The UK Government has published an official Renters’ Rights Act information sheet 2026, which private landlords and letting agents in England must now issue to existing tenants by 31 May 2026 as part of the rollout of the Renters’ Rights Act reforms.
The document explains how key aspects of a tenancy will change under the new law, which takes effect from 1 May 2026, and is intended to ensure tenants understand their updated rights and responsibilities.
Unlike previous requirements, landlords will not need to issue entirely new tenancy agreements; instead, they must deliver the official sheet to every named tenant on existing written contracts. Failure to provide it by the deadline could lead to civil penalties of up to £7,000.
The official information sheet is available directly from the Government’s website as a downloadable PDF. Landlords and letting agents can download the sheet here. It’s important to ensure you are using the latest official version, as this is the document recognised for legal compliance. Avoid relying on third-party sources, as these will not be accepted as valid copies. You must also send your tenants the information sheet directly; a link to the download will not be valid.
If you have any questions about your responsibilities surrounding the new information sheet, please reach out to your managing agent. We’ll be happy to help.
Update to EPCs postponed to 2027
The Government has postponed the launch of its updated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to the second half of 2027, providing landlords with extra time before revised energy efficiency metrics come into force.
Despite the delay to the methodology changes, the October 2030 deadline for all private rented properties to meet a minimum EPC C rating remains unchanged. Costs incurred on upgrades since October last year will count toward future regulatory caps, which may benefit proactive landlords.
As your agent, we think this extra time offers you an excellent opportunity to check your certificates and begin your improvements (if your property/ies need them) early. This will leave you well-positioned under the new rules.
Tenants to pay £47 fee to challenge rent increases
Tenants in England will be able to challenge rent increases for a fee of just £47 under new rules being introduced as part of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
The changes, due to come into force from 1st May 2026, will allow renters to take disputes over proposed rent hikes to a tribunal at one of the lowest costs in the court system. Financial support will also be available for those unable to afford the fee through existing assistance schemes.
The reforms form part of a wider overhaul of the private rented sector, aimed at giving tenants greater protection and preventing unfair rent increases. Under the new system, landlords will be able to raise rents only once a year through a formal notice process, and tenants will have the right to challenge any increase they believe exceeds market rates.
Experts say the low cost of making a challenge could lead to more cases being brought forward, potentially slowing down the implementation of rent increases while decisions are made.
As always, we’ll be able to support you through this as your agent. Should your tenants raise this issue, our systems and partnership with Goodlord will help create a timeline of supporting documents for your case.