Most attention on the Renters’ Rights Act is focused on the big go-live date of 1 May 2026. But there’s another date that matters just as much from a compliance point of view:
31 May 2026 is the deadline for landlords to provide certain written information to existing tenants.
This post explains what must be provided by 31 May, why it matters, how it affects landlords and tenants in practice, and how to make sure you meet the deadline with a clear audit trail.
What happens on 31 May 2026?
31 May 2026 is a statutory information deadline. It exists to make sure that tenants—especially those whose tenancy started under the old system—understand the new tenancy framework and know where they stand.
By 31 May 2026, landlords must:
-
Provide existing tenants with the required tenant “Information Sheet” about the reformed tenancy system; and
-
Where a tenancy was agreed verbally (with no written agreement), provide the tenant with a written summary of the key terms.
In plain English: every tenant should have clear written information about their tenancy and the new system, and every landlord should be able to prove they provided it.
Why is this deadline in place?
Because legal change only works if people understand it.
When tenancy rules change, confusion creates disputes:
-
tenants may not know what notice they must give,
-
landlords may not know what processes they must follow,
-
agents may continue using outdated practices,
-
and councils/courts spend time unpicking misunderstandings.
The 31 May deadline is designed to reduce that confusion by ensuring there is a consistent, written baseline of information across the PRS.
What the tenant “Information Sheet” is (and what it isn’t)
The Information Sheet is intended to be a plain-English guide that explains the reformed tenancy landscape in a way most tenants can understand.
It’s not a replacement for your tenancy agreement and it doesn’t rewrite your contract. Instead, it’s there to help tenants understand:
-
what tenancy type they have under the new framework,
-
what notice they must give to leave,
-
how rent increases work,
-
how disputes and rights operate under the new system,
-
and where to find reliable information and routes to complaint.
Think of it as an official “user manual” that must be provided to tenants.
What counts as an “existing tenancy”?
For the purposes of this deadline, “existing tenants” means tenants whose tenancy started before the 1 May 2026 commencement date and is continuing afterwards.
Landlords don’t need to “re-sign” everyone onto a brand-new agreement. But they do need to provide the required information by the deadline.
What landlords must do by 31 May 2026 (practical checklist)
1) Identify who needs what
Create a list of all tenancies and categorise them:
-
Category A: written tenancy agreement already exists
→ Provide the Information Sheet. -
Category B: tenancy agreed verbally / no written terms
→ Provide the Information Sheet and a written summary of the key terms.
This simple categorisation prevents most mistakes.
2) Provide it in a way you can prove
The biggest compliance risk isn’t “forgetting to send it” — it’s being unable to prove you did.
Landlords should aim to create an evidence trail that shows:
-
what you sent,
-
when you sent it,
-
who you sent it to,
-
and how you sent it.
Practical options include:
-
email with a delivery record and a saved copy of the sent email
-
postal service with proof of posting
-
tenant portal upload with timestamp (and proof the tenant is notified)
3) Keep a completion tracker
Use a simple tracker with:
-
property address
-
tenant name(s)
-
date sent
-
method (email/post/portal)
-
evidence reference (email thread, certificate of posting, portal receipt)
This is extremely useful if a complaint or enforcement query arises later.
4) If the tenancy was verbal: produce a written summary of key terms
If a tenancy was agreed verbally (or the written position is unclear), landlords must provide a written summary of the key terms.
At minimum, this summary should clearly state:
-
names of landlord and tenant
-
property address
-
rent amount and payment frequency
-
when the tenancy began
-
deposit amount (if any) and confirmation of protection requirements
-
who is responsible for utilities/council tax (where applicable)
-
any agreed terms that materially affect the tenancy (e.g., included bills, permitted occupiers)
The goal is clarity, not complexity.
What this means for landlords (why it matters)
1) It’s a compliance test of organisation
31 May 2026 is an early “stress test” of a landlord’s admin and record keeping.
If you manage multiple properties, missing even a small percentage of tenants creates avoidable risk—especially if enforcement becomes more proactive under the new regime.
2) It reduces dispute risk (if you do it properly)
Providing clear written information and keeping proof of delivery can prevent:
-
misunderstandings about tenant notice periods,
-
arguments about rent increases,
-
confusion around tenancy type and rights,
-
complaints escalating because tenants feel “left in the dark.”
3) It protects you if something is challenged later
If a tenant dispute arises later, a landlord who can show:
-
they complied with information duties,
-
they communicated clearly,
-
and they kept records,
is in a stronger position than one who can’t.
What this means for tenants (why it matters)
1) Clearer understanding of rights and responsibilities
For many tenants, the biggest challenge is knowing what the rules actually are.
A consistent Information Sheet helps tenants understand:
-
how they can end a tenancy properly (notice and timing),
-
what to expect if rent is increased,
-
what conduct or processes are required on both sides.
2) Better ability to challenge problems early
When tenants have clear written information:
-
they can raise issues earlier and more accurately,
-
they’re less reliant on hearsay or social media posts,
-
and they can use formal complaint routes more effectively.
3) Less confusion during a period of major change
The Act changes the landscape, and confusion can be stressful—especially if a tenant is already dealing with repairs, affordability pressure, or uncertainty about their housing situation.
31 May 2026 is designed to reduce that stress by creating a minimum baseline of clarity.
Common mistakes landlords should avoid
-
Assuming your agent will handle it (without checking).
If you use an agent, confirm in writing who is responsible and how you’ll get evidence of completion. -
Sending it but keeping no proof.
If you can’t prove it, it’s much harder to defend your position later. -
Missing verbal tenancies.
These are the highest risk group for dispute because the terms are less clear. -
Not updating contact details.
If tenant emails are out of date, you need a reliable alternative method.
A simple “do this now” plan
Step 1: Build your tenant list and categorise (written vs verbal)
Step 2: Prepare your delivery method (email/post/portal)
Step 3: Send the Information Sheet with proof
Step 4: Issue written term summaries for any verbal tenancies
Step 5: Maintain a completion tracker
The bottom line
31 May 2026 is an easy deadline to miss because it doesn’t feel as dramatic as the 1 May reforms—but it matters.
For landlords, it’s a compliance requirement and a chance to reduce dispute risk by providing clear information and keeping evidence.
For tenants, it’s a clarity and confidence boost during a period of major change.
Handled properly, it’s also one of the simplest ways to show you’re operating professionally under the new regime.
Disclaimer: NetRent does not provide legal advice. The articles represent our understanding of rental property law and are for general information only.
Contact: 01352 721300 | support@netrent.co.uk