Schools: getting ready for the renting changes

As many will already be aware, the renting rules are changing in 2026. The Renters' Rights Act, passed in October 2025, is set to come into effect on 1 May 2026, bringing in changes to the private rented sector. Amongst other things, this will mean that certain residential tenancies will automatically convert into open-ended periodic tenancies.  

Many schools will be affected, since accommodation is often made available for school staff. This can be on a service occupancy basis or on a tenancy basis, and the difference is important. If on a tenancy basis, there will be actions to take and potentially changes to make. For example, landlords will need to provide certain information to their tenants in writing. As the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government roadmap states, details of what needs to be provided will be published ahead of time in order to allow landlords time to prepare - a draft of the information that will need to be provided is expected in January 2026.     

Given the new rules, and the necessary steps for landlords, it is worth schools reviewing any residential arrangements and considering what might need to be done. Changes are afoot in 2026, so please do get in touch if you have any questions on this subject.