Category: Litigation

From 1st May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 introduces a fundamental shift in the private rented sector.

While much of the public discussion has focused on tenant protections, the more immediate issue for landlords is operational. Landlords will face several key deadlines requiring action within a short timeframe, and missing those deadlines may have legal and financial consequences.

This is not simply a regulatory update. It marks a seismic change in how tenancies are structured, managed, and, ultimately, brought to an end.

30th April 2026: Final Day for Existing Possession Notices

30th April 2026 represents a critical cut-off point.

It is the final day on which landlords can serve a Section 21 notice (commonly referred to as a “no-fault” eviction) or rely on the current Section 8 grounds and notice periods.

From the following day, this position changes entirely. Section 21 is abolished, and landlords must rely on a revised set of statutory grounds when seeking possession.

For landlords already considering regaining possession, timing is therefore significant. Decisions that might previously have been deferred may now require immediate attention, as the options available after 1st May 2026 will be more restricted.

1st May 2026: A New Tenancy Framework

From 1st May 2026, all new tenancies will operate under a different framework.

Fixed-term tenancies fall away and are replaced by assured periodic tenancies. At the same time, new possession grounds and notice periods come into force.

This represents more than a technical adjustment. The move away from fixed terms removes a degree of certainty that many landlords have historically relied upon.

In practical terms, this affects how landlords approach:

• Income planning and predictability;
• Long-term portfolio strategy; and
• Decisions around exit or reconfiguration.

For those with multiple properties or more complex arrangements, this is a point at which existing strategies may need to be revisited.

31st May 2026: Documenting Tenancy Terms

A further deadline follows shortly afterwards.

By 31st May 2026, landlords must ensure that tenants are provided with a clear written record of the tenancy terms where one does not already exist in full.

While many tenancies are already documented, this requirement is particularly relevant to long-standing arrangements where terms may have evolved over time or been only partially recorded.

Ensuring that terms are properly documented creates certainty, reduces the scope for dispute, and strengthens the landlord’s position should any issues arise in the future.

31st May 2026: Information Sheet Requirement

By 31st May 2026, landlords must also provide qualifying tenants with the government-issued Renters’ Rights Information Sheet.

This applies to tenancies that were created before 1st May 2026 and fall within the assured or assured shorthold regime where written terms exist.

Failure to comply may result in financial penalties of up to £7,000.

Although the requirement itself is relatively straightforward, it should not be treated lightly. The Information Sheet must be served correctly, addressed to all named tenants, and records of service should be retained. In practice, these are often the areas where compliance issues arise.

Beyond the Deadlines: A Shift in Control

In addition to the imminent deadlines faced by landlords, the Renters’ Rights Act introduces a framework in which landlords have less flexibility and greater regulatory exposure. The removal of Section 21 notices, combined with the move to periodic tenancies, changes the balance of control.

For some landlords, this will have limited day-to-day impact. For others, particularly those who have not reviewed their arrangements in recent years, it raises more fundamental questions about how their portfolio is structured and managed.

What was once a relatively passive investment may now require more active oversight.

What Landlords Should Be Doing Now

The immediate priority is not simply to meet the deadlines, but to understand how these changes affect your overall strategic position.

For some, this will involve a straightforward compliance exercise. For others, particularly where portfolios are larger or more complex, a more considered review may be required.

In practice, this often includes assessing whether existing tenancy agreements remain appropriate, identifying where documentation is incomplete or outdated, and ensuring that required materials are served correctly and on time.

It is also an opportunity to consider how the revised possession regime may affect future flexibility and decision-making.

Taking advice at this stage allows potential issues to be addressed proactively, rather than in response to a problem that has already happened.

How Vyman Solicitors Can Support You

Our Commercial Property and Litigation teams are advising landlords on the practical implications of the Renters’ Rights Act.

This includes supporting clients with compliance requirements, reviewing tenancy structures, advising on possession strategies, and assisting with wider portfolio considerations where properties form part of a broader investment or exit plan.

Speak to Our Team

If you would like to understand how these changes affect your position, or ensure that you are fully prepared ahead of the upcoming deadlines, our team would be pleased to assist.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Renters’ Rights Act come into force?
The key changes take effect from 1st May 2026.

Can landlords still use Section 21 notices after April 2026?
No. Section 21 notices are abolished from 1st May 2026.

What happens if I miss the 31st May 2026 deadline?
You may face financial penalties and increased compliance risk, including fines of up to £7,000.

Do all landlords need to provide an Information Sheet?
This applies to qualifying tenancies created before 1st May 2026 within the assured tenancy framework where written terms exist.

Do tenancy agreements need to be updated?
Where terms are not fully documented, landlords must provide a written breakdown by 31st May 2026.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Spot the signs early. Protect your wealth, your business, and your peace of mind.

Are you worried about a contract dispute, business fallout, or property conflict but unsure if it’s “serious enough” to speak to a solicitor?

You’re not alone. At Vyman Solicitors, we help clients spot legal risks early before they escalate into expensive, reputation-damaging disputes. After all, an ounce of prevention is better than a tonne of cure.

This article breaks down the most common red flags we see across our litigation cases and what to do if you are faced with or recognise any of these.

Common Legal Dispute Red Flags

1. Breakdown of trust between directors, business partners, or shareholders

When a director, partner, or shareholder starts making decisions without others, or there’s tension around dividends or exit plans, it’s a sign to seek legal advice. These issues don’t “go away” with the passage of time – they get worse.

2. Long-standing family business disagreements

Emotional ties can cloud commercial decisions. We support directors, partners, and shareholders in family-run businesses in resolving disputes without destroying relationships or the family business.

3. Property issues that won’t go away

From joint ownership disagreements to broken development agreements – property disputes require early, incisive, and practical legal advice to avoid costly and time-consuming litigation.

4. Unclear or breached contracts

If someone isn’t fulfilling their side of a deal or the contract is vague, then you need to act. We help resolve issues quickly and avoid court proceedings where possible.

5. Undisclosed liabilities in a business purchase

Have you bought a business and find out something wasn’t disclosed? We often uncover fraud or misrepresentation, and act swiftly to recover losses.

6. Asset misuse or unauthorised transfers

Have funds from your business been moved without consent or its assets misused? You may need a freezing order or injunction. Don’t delay, time is critical.

7. You’ve received a solicitor’s letter – or need to send one

Even if things haven’t become “formal”, the moment legal letters are involved, your next step matters. We’ll help you respond clearly and strategically to focus on solving your problem.

How a Litigation Solicitor Helps Protect You

At Vyman Solicitors, we don’t just react to disputes — we help prevent them. Clients come to us when they:

• Feel uncertain about their legal position;
• Need to take control of a growing issue;
• Want strategic advice without going straight to court; or
• Need support navigating high-value, reputationally sensitive matters.

We act for business owners, high-net-worth individuals, professionals, and trustees.

When is the Right Time to Speak to a Litigation Lawyer?

Now. The earlier, the better. Even a 20-minute conversation could save you months of stress and thousands in legal costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When should I contact a litigation solicitor?

Contact a litigation solicitor as soon as a business dispute, contract breach, or legal risk arises – even before formal court proceedings begin. Early advice helps you protect your position, reduce costs, and avoid escalation.

What types of legal disputes can a litigation solicitor help with?

A litigation solicitor can support you with:

• Business partner or shareholder disputes
• Contract breaches or unclear agreements
• Property disputes
• Debt recovery and unpaid invoices
• Inheritance or trust disagreements
• Fraud, negligence, or professional misconduct cases

How do I know if I need a lawyer or if it’s too early?

If you’re uncertain about your legal position, feel a dispute is building, or have concerns about contracts, communication breakdowns, or financial risks — it’s not too early. A quick legal consultation can help clarify your options.

Do I need a litigation solicitor if I haven’t been to court yet?

Yes. Many disputes are resolved without going to court. A litigation solicitor can negotiate, draft legal letters, or initiate resolution proceedings to protect your interests before litigation becomes necessary.

Can a solicitor help resolve a dispute without going to court?

Absolutely. We often use mediation, negotiation, or settlement strategies to resolve matters cost-effectively — particularly in commercial and family business disputes.

What should I do if I receive a legal letter from another solicitor?

Don’t ignore it. Get advice immediately. Your response time may be limited, and how you reply can significantly affect your outcome. We can help you craft a clear, legally sound response.

Can I use my own accountant and still work with your team?

Yes – we regularly work alongside accountants, financial advisers, and wealth managers. Our role is to complement your existing team with strategic legal expertise, especially in commercial and asset-related matters.

How much does it cost to instruct a litigation solicitor?

Costs vary depending on the complexity and stage of your matter. We’re transparent from the start — offering initial guidance and clear fee structures so you can make informed decisions.

How do I book a consultation with a litigation lawyer near me?

To speak with a solicitor in our London-based litigation team, call 020 8427 9080 or email info@vyman.co.uk to request a call back.

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About Vyman Solicitors

Located in North West London, Vyman Solicitors provides a comprehensive range of legal services, including Corporate & Commercial Property Law, Litigation, Residential and Conveyancing Law, Family Law, Private Client and Immigration. Known for its commitment to personalised client support and legal excellence, Vyman is a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.

Follow Vyman Solicitors on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

From 29 August 2020, all section 21 notices must give a minimum of 6 months’ notice to the Tenant. In addition, the majority of section 8 notices must also give a minimum of 6 months’ notice save for certain breaches of the tenancy agreement such as the tenant being in 6 or more months rental arrears (4 weeks’ notice only) or for antisocial behaviour. From 29 August 2020, all section 21 notices must give a minimum of 6 months’ notice to the Tenant. In addition, the majority of section 8 notices must also give a minimum of 6 months’ notice save for certain breaches of the tenancy agreement such as the tenant being in 6 or more months rental arrears (4 weeks’ notice only) or for antisocial behaviour. It is an extremely difficult time for both Landlords and Tenants during these unprecedented times. Following the government’s latest restrictions on 20 December 2020, entering more than 38 million people into tier 4, the following still applies to both Landlords and Tenants:

1.  All section 21 evictions are suspended until 21 January 2021, subject to any further changes by the government.

2.  There are a few exceptions to the above, namely antisocial behaviour and if the tenant is in more than 9 months’ rent arrears.

3.  It should be noted that Bailiffs must give the tenant at least 2 weeks’ notice of an eviction date.

Further to the above, all Courts remain open and are hearing possession matters. However, there is a large backlog of cases resulting in serious delays in obtaining a hearing date and possession orders.

Current Notice Period for eviction notices

From 29 August 2020, all section 21 notices must give a minimum of 6 months’ notice to the Tenant. In addition, the majority of section 8 notices must also give a minimum of 6 months’ notice save for certain breaches of the tenancy agreement such as the tenant being in 6 or more months rental arrears (4 weeks’ notice only) or for antisocial behaviour.

Checklist for serving Section 21 Notice

In order for a section 21 notice to be valid, the following will need to be served on the Tenant beforehand in compliance with the Deregulation Act 2015:

1.  Protection of the Deposit in a Scheme. The Deposit must be protected within 30 days of entering into the agreement. If the Deposit has not been protected, then a section 21 notice shall only be valid once the deposit has been returned in full to the tenant.

2. The Landlord must also legally provide the tenant with a specific set of information relating to the tenancy, “Prescribed Information”. This information must be served on the tenants within 30 days.

3.  Must serve a gas certificate and energy performance certificate on the tenant, if applicable. Please note, this may not apply for tenancy agreements prior to 1 October 2015.

4.  Must serve a copy of the “How to Rent: the checklist for renting in England”.

Section 21 Notices will only be valid for six months from the date of issue. This means you have to issue possession proceedings within six months of when it is served. After six months it becomes invalid; and a new Section 21 Notice will need then to be served.

The above obligations and act can found on:

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/20/contents/enacted.

If you require any assistance, whether you are a landlord or tenant, please do not hesitate to contact our litigation department on 020 8427 9080.

We are getting numerous enquiries from both landlords and tenants in relation to requests for rental concessions during this Covid 19 pandemic.

Landlords are increasingly being faced with requests for rental payment holidays or other concessions.

Similarly, tenants may be having severe cash flow difficulties, particularly those in the hospitality and leisure sectors, and now all retailers (other than supermarkets and pharmacies) have to close.

It is also common knowledge that lenders are supposed to be giving their borrowers (i.e. landlords) a 3-month mortgage payment holiday.

In the circumstances, what to do? Here is a checklist of things you may wish to consider:

• Evidence of Hardship: Some tenants may be seeking rental concessions as a matter of course. As a landlord, you may wish to see actual evidence of financial hardship before simply agreeing.

• Mortgage payments: Bear in mind that although your mortgage payments may be deferred, ultimately, you will at some point have to pay them as well as any interest on them.

• Form of rental concession: What form of rental concession are you willing to agree? There are various alternatives:

• • Percentage reduction.
  • Payment holiday.
  • Deferral.
  • Change to payment dates and periods (e.g. from quarterly in advance to monthly in advance).
  • Combination of the above.

• Formalities: Ideally, whether you are a landlord or a tenant, any change should be formally documented. If you are a tenant, you may wish to seek a variation to the terms of your lease or tenancy. On the other hand, if you are a landlord, you may prefer merely to provide a voluntary concession which can be withdrawn at any time. To avoid unanticipated rights or obligations arising, careful thought is required.

• Guarantors: If the lease or tenancy obligations are guaranteed, it is probably wise that guarantors are also party to any change to avoid them consequently arguing that they are no longer bound.

• Termination of concessions: Consider when and how the concessions may be terminated, e.g.:

(i) On notice
(ii) On any dealings with the lease
(iii) On any breach of the lease terms or the terms of any variation or concession

• Parties to the concession: You may wish to consider whether other parties (e.g. successors in title or assignees) should be bound or have the benefit of the concession, or whether it should be personal to the current landlord and tenant only.

• Time period: You may wish to agree that the concession will automatically come to an end at a certain time. The drawback of this is that if you continue to apply the concession beyond that time, it may amount to a continuing agreement which becomes binding.

• Interest: If payment is deferred or delayed, consider whether interest should be payable and at what rate.

• Rent Review: If a rent review is pending, consider what the effect of any concession will be on the rent review.

We are more than happy to advise you in connection with any of the issues raised above and in helping you to document any variations, concession arrangements or agreements. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

Landlords of Houses in Multiple Occupation must Register for New Licences or Risk Fines

If you’re a landlord responsible for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) you need to apply for a maximum five year licence or risk unlimited fines.

New rules, introduced last year for local authorities, mean that councils such as Harrow are now targeting houses and flats which previously fell outside the scope of the current legislation (Housing Act 2004).

What You Need To Do

You need to have licences if you’re renting out a large HMO defined as:

• Rented to 5 or more people who form more than 1 household
• At least 3 storeys high
• Tenants sharing a toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities

Depending on each council, even if a property is smaller and rented to a few people, a licence may still be needed.

Other Requirements

You also need to:

• Send the council an updated gas safety certificate every year
• Install and maintain smoke alarms
• Provide safety certificates for all electrical appliances when requested
• Make sure the house is suitable for the number of occupants (e.g. size and facilities)
• Appoint a manager of the house – you as the landlord or an agent – who is considered to be ‘fit and proper’ e.g. no criminal record, or breach of landlord laws or code of practice

There may be other conditions required that also need to be met such as improving the standard of the facilities.

You need to apply to your local authority for an HMO licence – a fee is set by each council. Each property must have its own licence.

“Harrow, as well as a number of other local authorities have introduced the additional licensing schemes under Part 2 of the Housing Act 2004 to tackle badly managed properties,” says Shephali Devani from Vyman Solicitors.

“It can be a bit of minefield but we’re here to help make property transactions including for HMOs go smoothly. We’re proud that over the years we have built up a first class reputation,” says Shephali.

To see how we can help, please get in touch:

Tel: +44 (0)20 8427 9080

Fax: +44 (0)20 8427 9050

Email: info@vyman.co.uk