The Future of Tenant Selection Starts in May 2026

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces clearer, more consistent standards across the Private Rented Sector. For professional landlords, this provides greater structure around how tenancies are agreed and managed, creating a more transparent and sustainable rental market.

The key to success will be preparation. Our experienced team is here to help you stay ahead of the changes and continue letting with confidence.

What’s changing on the 1st May 2026:  

From 1st May 2026, landlords will not be able to apply blanket restrictions on applicants with children or those in receipt of benefits.

Landlords will still retain full control over tenant selection and affordability checks. Referencing and suitability assessments remain central to the process, ensuring tenancies remain sustainable and financially secure.

Our view:  

This creates more inclusivity, without compromising the screening process. Landlords can continue to assess tenants based on their ability to meet rent and other requirements, rather than relying on broad criteria. Landlords can make informed decisions and with the right referencing tools in place, it reduces risk and strengthens decision-making.

Do you need to review your current tenant selection process before the changes come in? Book a landlord compliance review with our team.

How we can help:  

We offer Open Banking & Pro referencing, to give landlords peace of mind when sourcing a tenant. Combining Payroll and HMRC checks with Open Banking through our partner, Goodlord, sets the standard in the industry for the most rigorous and reliable referencing available.

FAQs

Q. What if my property isn’t suitable for children?

A. Landlords and agents should consider applicants on their individual circumstances.

For example, a one-bedroom flat might be suitable for a mother with a baby but not for a parent with two teenage children, where this level of occupancy would mean that rules on overcrowding were breached.

Letting agents would need to consider whether excluding prospective tenants with children represents a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim and landlords would need to be able to evidence their decision on a case-by-case basis.

Q. Does this increase my risk of rent arrears?

A: No, provided you use robust referencing. The change removes blanket exclusions, not affordability assessments. With enhanced referencing and income verification, landlords can continue to make financially sound decisions.

Q. Can I still decline an applicant?

A: Yes. Decisions can still be made based on:

• Affordability
• Credit history
• Referencing outcomes
• Suitability for the property

What changes is that decisions must be evidence-based, not category-based.

Q. What evidence should I keep to protect myself?

A: We recommend retaining:

• Full referencing reports
• Affordability calculations
• Notes on property suitability considerations
• Overcrowding compliance assessments

Our team can ensure your documentation process protects you if a decision is ever questioned.

Q. Will this increase void periods?

A: In many cases, broadening your applicant pool can actually reduce void periods. With proper screening, you may benefit from a wider range of suitable applicants.

Have a specific scenario you’re unsure about? Contact us for tailored guidance.