May 2026 Property Reforms:
The Biggest Property Law Shake-Up in a Generation
By Aman Solicitors, Birmingham
From 1st May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act will fundamentally change property tenure in England. Whether you own a single rental property or a portfolio, these reforms affect how you let, manage, and seek possession of your property.
For decades, the assured shorthold tenancy (AST) system has given landlords predictable fixed terms and the ability to reclaim possession without fault via Section 21. That familiar framework is now being dismantled. In its place comes a new regime in the form of May 2026 Property Reforms.
If you’re a landlord – especially with a small portfolio where every void period, dispute, or legal misstep can have an outsized financial impact – you need to act now. Waiting until the eve of May 2026 could leave you with non-compliant tenancy agreements, invalid possession claims, and avoidable losses. Early preparation is not just advisable; it is essential.
Here is a snapshot of the key changes in May 2026 property reforms:
| Area | Reform |
|---|---|
| Tenancy type | All fixed-term ASTs automatically convert to rolling periodic tenancies |
| Evictions | Section 21 “no-fault” evictions abolished – Section 8 grounds only |
| Rent increases | Once per year maximum, via formal Section 13 process |
| Pets | Tenants gain an implied right – landlords cannot unreasonably refuse |
| Lease extensions | Two-year waiting period abolished – Day One statutory rights |
| Ground rent | Reduced to a peppercorn (zero) on new extensions or freehold purchases |
May 2026 Reforms: What’s Next? Ongoing Reforms
After may 2026 property reforms, further changes are on the horizon:
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Draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill – A consultation on banning new leasehold flats and expanding the commonhold system runs until 24th April 2026, aiming to make commonhold the standard.
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Service Charges – Planned reforms will increase transparency and accountability in service charge management.
How Aman Solicitors Birmingham Adds Critical Value?
Navigating May 2026 property reforms alone is risky and time-consuming. Aman Solicitors Birmingham provides expert, practical support that saves landlords time, money and hassle.
Here is how we help:
✅ Tenancy Agreement Reviews – We will audit your existing ASTs and ensure they comply with the new periodic tenancy model before May 2026.
✅ Section 8 Eviction Guidance – With Section 21 gone, we will train and guide you on the updated Section 8 grounds, helping you avoid costly invalid possession claims.
✅ Rent Increase Strategy – We will help you structure lawful, once-yearly rent increases using the correct Section 13 process, minimising disputes.
✅ Reasonable Pet Policy Drafting – We will draft a robust, legally compliant pet policy that protects your property while respecting tenants’ new implied rights.
✅ Leasehold & Freehold Advice – From Day One rights to peppercorn ground rents, we will advise on lease extensions and freehold purchases so you do not overpay or miss deadlines.
✅ Service Charge Disputes – As reforms loom, we will help you challenge or manage unfair service charges with full transparency.
Don’t Wait Until May 2026 Property Reforms Kicks in
The clock is ticking. Getting ahead of these changes now will save you from legal headaches, void tenancies and lost rental income. Let us handle the complexity – so you can focus on your property portfolio with confidence.
Let’s Talk
Your property matters. Your peace of mind matters. And at Aman Solicitors, we believe that with the right legal support, even the most complex reforms like the ones in upcoming may 2026 property reforms can lead to confident, hassle‑free tenancies and new beginnings for your portfolio.
📞 Call us: 0121 328 4455
📧 Email: info@amansolicitors.co.uk
📍 Visit: 37 Alum Rock Rd, Saltley, Birmingham B8 1LR
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult a qualified solicitor for advice regarding your individual circumstances.