A new chapter for renters in NW11
If you are renting or planning to rent in Golders Green, Childs Hill, Temple Fortune, or anywhere along Finchley Road and the Brent Cross area, the Renters’ Rights Act introduces the most significant reforms to the private rented sector in England for decades.
The legislation changes how tenancies operate, how landlords regain possession of their properties, and how tenants are protected throughout their tenancy. For renters in a busy and competitive market such as NW11, understanding these changes can help you make informed decisions when searching for or renting a home.
This guide explains what the legislation means for tenants in Golders Green, with practical information and local context.
The end of Section 21: What it means in practice
One of the biggest changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions.
Where a landlord needs to regain possession of a property, they must now rely on one of the statutory grounds for possession and follow the legal process set out in the legislation.
For tenants renting in Golders Green, Temple Fortune and Childs Hill, this provides greater security by ensuring possession can only be sought using the appropriate legal grounds.
What greater security of tenure looks like for you
In practical terms, tenants can expect greater certainty when renting a property, provided they continue to meet the terms of their tenancy agreement.
Whether you are renting an apartment near Golders Green Underground station or a family home close to Temple Fortune, the changes are intended to provide greater stability while maintaining clear legal processes for landlords where possession is genuinely required.
The move to periodic tenancies
Under the Renters’ Rights Act, assured shorthold tenancies have been replaced by periodic assured tenancies. From 1 May 2026, new tenancies are periodic from the outset, and most existing assured shorthold tenancies have automatically transitioned to periodic assured tenancies.
How periodic tenancies work
Under the new system, tenancies continue on a periodic basis rather than ending after a fixed term.
Tenants who wish to leave must give the required statutory notice, while landlords must rely on the relevant statutory grounds where they need to recover possession of the property.
The new approach is designed to provide greater flexibility for tenants while creating a consistent tenancy framework across England.
What this means when you are searching for a property
When viewing properties in Golders Green, Temple Fortune or Childs Hill, it is worth asking your letting agent how your tenancy will operate under the current legal framework.
Understanding your tenancy agreement before signing can help ensure you know your rights and responsibilities from the outset.
Property standards and your rights as a tenant
The Renters’ Rights Act includes measures intended to strengthen standards across the private rented sector.
Future Decent Homes Standard
The government has confirmed its intention to introduce the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector. The detailed requirements and implementation timetable are still being finalised.
In the meantime, landlords must continue meeting their existing legal obligations relating to repairs, property safety and housing standards.
If repairs are needed, tenants should report issues promptly and keep a record of communications with their landlord or managing agent.
Deposit protection and the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman
Deposit protection requirements continue to apply. Where a tenancy deposit is taken, landlords must protect it in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within the statutory timescale and provide the required prescribed information.
The Renters’ Rights Act also introduces a private rented sector ombudsman, which is expected to provide an independent route for resolving disputes once the scheme is operational.
Rent increases and greater transparency
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces changes to the way rent increases are managed.
Landlords must follow the statutory process when increasing rent, and tenants have the right to challenge proposed increases through the First-tier Tribunal if they believe the proposed rent exceeds the market level.
The legislation is also intended to improve transparency throughout the lettings process by creating a fairer and more consistent framework for landlords and tenants.
How to protect yourself as a renter in Golders Green
Understanding your rights is an important part of renting with confidence. As a tenant in 2026, it is sensible to:
- Read your tenancy agreement carefully before signing and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- Keep written records of communication with your landlord or letting agent, particularly regarding repairs and maintenance.
- Check that your tenancy deposit has been protected and that you have received the required prescribed information.
- Seek independent advice if you are unsure about your rights or responsibilities during your tenancy.
Renting with confidence in NW11
The Renters’ Rights Act represents a significant change to renting in England. For tenants in Golders Green, Temple Fortune and Childs Hill, the reforms are intended to provide greater security, clearer rights and a more consistent legal framework.
Whether you are a professional commuting via the Northern line, a family looking for access to local amenities and schools, or someone relocating to North London, understanding the new tenancy rules can help you rent with greater confidence.
At Ellis & Co Golders Green, we believe that informed tenants make better decisions throughout the lettings process. Our team is here to answer your questions, explain the current legal framework and help you find a property that suits your needs.
Whether you are searching for your first rental home in NW11 or looking to move within the local area, Ellis & Co Golders Green is here to support you every step of the way.
Get in touch with our Golders Green branch to discuss available rental properties, ask questions about the lettings process or speak with one of our local property professionals.
If you’re looking for your next rental home in Golders Green, Temple Fortune or Childs Hill, contact Ellis & Co Golders Green to register your property search. If you’re a landlord, book a free rental valuation with our local team.
