Landlords in Barnet & Whetstone: Is Your Rental Property Ready for the New Rules?
The private rental sector has undergone some of its biggest changes in decades.
Since 1 May 2026, significant provisions within the Renters’ Rights Act have changed the way private landlords in England manage tenancies, rents and possession.
For landlords in Barnet, Whetstone and across North London, understanding the new system is now an essential part of successfully managing a rental property.
Fixed-Term ASTs Have Changed
One of the biggest changes is the move away from traditional fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies.
Most private tenancies now operate as assured periodic tenancies, running on a rolling basis rather than having a fixed end date.
For landlords accustomed to six or twelve-month fixed terms, this represents a significant change to the way tenancies are structured and managed.
Section 21 Has Gone
The abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions is perhaps the most widely discussed part of the reforms.
Landlords can no longer use Section 21 to regain possession of a property and must instead rely on the appropriate legal grounds for possession.
There remain legitimate circumstances in which landlords can recover their property – including where they intend to sell or move into it – but following the correct procedure, grounds and notice periods is increasingly important.
Changes to Rent
The reforms have also changed how rents are handled.
Rental properties must be advertised with an asking rent, and landlords and agents cannot encourage or accept offers above that advertised figure.
Rent increases must also follow the appropriate process.
This makes an accurate rental valuation particularly important. Setting the right rent from the beginning isn’t simply about maximising income – it can help attract suitable tenants and reduce unnecessary periods when a property is empty.
New Rules Around Pets
Tenants now have strengthened rights when requesting permission to keep a pet.
A landlord must properly consider a request and can only refuse where there is a valid reason.
For landlords, this means having clear procedures in place rather than relying on a blanket approach.
Greater Protection Against Discrimination
The rules also prevent landlords and agents from discriminating against prospective tenants simply because they receive benefits or have children.
Marketing, enquiries and tenant selection therefore need to be handled correctly and consistently.
Compliance Matters More Than Ever
The changes demonstrate how much more complex professional property management has become.
Alongside the Renters’ Rights reforms, landlords already need to consider areas including:
- Deposit protection
- Gas safety
- Electrical safety
- Energy Performance Certificates
- Right to Rent checks
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements
- Property maintenance
- Licensing where applicable
- Correct tenancy documentation
Missing an important requirement can potentially become an expensive mistake.
Is Now the Time to Review Your Rental Property?
The changes don’t mean that property is no longer an attractive investment.
Barnet and Whetstone continue to offer many of the characteristics tenants look for: excellent transport connections into Central London, highly regarded schools, established neighbourhoods and a wide range of houses and apartments.
However, successful landlords increasingly need to approach their investment professionally.
That starts with understanding the property’s current rental value, choosing the right tenant and ensuring the tenancy is managed correctly from day one.
Let Hunters Take Care of Your Property
At Hunters Barnet & Whetstone, we understand the local rental market and the increasing responsibilities facing landlords.
Whether you have one rental property or an established portfolio, our lettings team can help with marketing, tenant finding and ongoing property management, while helping you navigate the changing regulatory environment.
Thinking of letting a property in Barnet or Whetstone?
Contact Hunters Barnet & Whetstone today to arrange a rental valuation and discover how much your property could achieve in the current market.