Renters’ Rights Act: What Devon Landlords Need to Know Next

The Renters’ Rights Act has already brought significant changes to private renting in England. Now, landlords in Devon should prepare for the next stage: the government’s new ‘Register your rental property’ service.

With registration being introduced region by region, understanding your deadline and getting your records ready will help you prepare.

When will Devon landlords need to register?

The service begins its national rollout on 15 December 2026, starting in the West Midlands.

For rental properties in Devon and the wider South West, the registration requirement begins on 15 August 2027, with a deadline of 14 November 2027.

The government has announced an annual registration fee of £65 per property. The timetable follows the location of the rental property, rather than where its landlord lives.

Initially, the requirement covers relevant properties that are already let or become let during the rollout. Further requirements covering registration before advertising vacant properties will follow in a later stage. Read the government’s registration guidance.

What has already changed?

The main tenancy reforms took effect on 1 May 2026. Most existing assured shorthold tenancies became assured periodic tenancies, and landlords can no longer serve new Section 21 notices.

Landlords seeking possession must use an applicable legal ground and follow the correct procedure. Rent increases must follow the revised Section 13 process, with at least two months’ notice, and cannot take place more than once a year.

The reforms also introduced rules on rental bidding, discrimination against applicants with children or receiving benefits, and consideration of tenants’ requests to keep pets. See the government’s landlord overview.

How can landlords prepare?

Start by checking that your tenancy records, property details and relevant safety documents are accurate and accessible.

The registration service will require information about your property and tenancy, alongside supporting compliance documents. Landlords will need to begin the registration process themselves, although agents will be able to assist with certain information. Check what you will need to provide.

Speak to Winfields about your rental property

Whether you manage one rental home or a larger portfolio, now is a useful time to review your arrangements and prepare for the next stage of reform.

Contact Winfields to discuss your lettings and property management needs in Torbay and the surrounding area.

Information checked on 28 October 2026. This article provides general information about private renting in England; individual circumstances may require specialist advice.