What the Renters’ Rights Act means for disabled tenants

It’s estimated that 16.8 million people in the UK had a disability in 2023/24. Figures from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (2018) show that 1 in 5 disabled people live in social housing, meaning the Renters’ Rights Act will have a significant impact on this group. Many of the changes under the Act will come into effect from 1 May 2026, and these will include several benefits for disabled tenants – which is welcome news.

So, what do the Renters’ Rights Act changes mean for disabled people? Renters in England will have fairer conditions when it comes to renting – from ending ‘no fault’ evictions under section 21 to capping rent increases from landlords at once per year.

There are several changes in the Renters’ Rights Act that will benefit disabled tenants, and we’ve highlighted some of the key ones below.

Updates to the Renters’ Rights Act have been welcomed by housing charities and anti-poverty campaign groups. While many say it is still not perfect, it opens access to safer, more secure housing. Recent research shows that disabled renters report worse rental experiences (25% negative vs 16% for non-disabled renters).

The Renters’ Rights Act is set to change the way private landlords let properties in England, creating more fairness for tenants. Many of these changes come into force on 1 May 2026. Some of the most important changes that could help disabled tenants include:

These changes are particularly important for disabled people. In an economy where every penny counts, sudden rent increases can have a huge impact on those living on benefits or a low income. The ban on large rent in advance will also help people move more easily if their circumstances change, as they will not need to pay high amounts of rent upfront.

From 1 May 2026, there will be a ban on ‘rental discrimination’. This means it will be illegal for landlords to refuse tenants purely because they are in receipt of benefits – which can be a major barrier for disabled people.

Landlords and letting agents will need to consider all tenants on their individual merits (for example, their ability to afford the rent), rather than judging them based on the source of their income.

Yes, you will have the right to request a pet as a tenant. From assistance dogs to family pets, the benefits of pet ownership for disabled people can be significant. When the changes come into effect, you will have a clear right to request a pet in your rented home.

With the cost of living continuing to rise, this change is intended to bring more stability for people worried about ever-increasing bills. From 1 May 2026, landlords will only be able to increase rent once a year, and they must give tenants at least 2 months’ notice of any rent increase.

The changes under the Renters’ Rights Act are set to give the rental market the biggest shake-up in years. While the legislation may not be perfect, it has been developed with tenants’ needs in mind. The reforms aim to improve the renting experience for everyone – tenants and landlords alike – and to give private renters in England more secure and fairer conditions, including ending section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, which can remove people from their homes at short notice.