Landlord Newsletter – January 2026
Hello and Happy New Year from Mesh Pandaram at Tri Property Fusion. I hope you had a restful break and are ready for the year ahead. This newsletter brings you the latest market news and tips to help you plan a successful 2026.
Market Update
The UK rental market remained solid through 2025. Official data shows average private rents up about 4–5% year-on-year by late 2025, though the pace of growth is slowing. For example, ONS reports UK average rent was £1,366 in November 2025, £58 (4.4%) higher than a year before. Rightmove’s latest lettings analysis agrees rents are at record highs, but annual growth has cooled (around 3.9% rise by mid-2025). In practical terms, this means landlords can maintain solid income while staying realistic with rent reviews.
Meanwhile, supply is improving. Listings of rental homes are about 11% higher in 2025 than in 2024, and tenant enquiries are down, suggesting a better balance of supply and demand. In other words, tenants have more choice, and many owners are reducing asking rents (24% of listings have been cut). The upside for landlords is that better balance can lead to longer tenancies and fewer gaps between lets.
Legal Corner: Renters’ Rights Act
A major change is on the horizon. The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent in October 2025, and its first reforms take effect on 1 May 2026. Key points to know now: fixed-term ASTs will be abolished and replaced by open-ended assured periodic tenancies, Section 21 “no-fault” evictions will end, and rent increases will be limited to once per year (with proper notice). The Act also bans rental bidding wars and advances beyond one month’s rent, and makes it illegal to discriminate against tenants with children or on benefits. In short, the new law emphasizes stability and fairness for tenants, while still protecting landlords’ rights (with revised eviction grounds).
We’re closely monitoring these changes so you stay compliant. For now, it’s wise to review your tenancy agreements, notice periods and rent review clauses to make sure they’ll align with the new rules. If you have tenants, you’ll also soon need to give them updated information sheets about these changes (the government will publish guidance in early 2026). Of course, Tri Property Fusion will help you navigate all of this as we approach May 2026, ensuring your agreements and procedures are up to date.
Tip of the Month: Start the Year Right
Early in the year is a perfect time to get organized. Here are a few checklist items for January:
- Review Tenancies & Rents. Consider whether you should adjust any rents. Annual reviews are best done now so you catch the market safely, before the spring peak. Make sure your tenancy agreements reflect current law and clearly state responsibilities, notice periods, etc.
- Safety Checks. Schedule the annual Gas Safety check (a Gas Safe engineer must inspect all gas appliances yearly) and ensure the tenant has a copy of the certificate. Check when your property’s EICR (electrical inspection) is next due (every five years) and book it if needed. Also test that your smoke and CO alarms are fitted and working on every floor and near any fuel-burning appliance.
- EPC & Energy. Every rental needs a valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate). Currently an “E” rating is the minimum legal standard, but future rules may push this to a “C” or higher. If you haven’t already, consider upgrading insulation, windows or heating to boost energy efficiency. Even small improvements can make your property more attractive and future-proof your investment.
- Documentation & Deposits. Check that any tenant deposit is in a government-approved protection scheme and that you’ve issued the prescribed information. Organize your records (rental payments, inspection logs, communications) in a digital folder so everything is at your fingertips if councils start inspections under the new Act.
Staying on top of these tasks now will save headaches later. Remember, we’re here to help keep you compliant and stress-free.
Why Use a Letting Agent in 2026?
Never has professional support been more valuable. Letting agents excel at handling all the above from timely rent reviews and safety checks to updating contracts and serving any notices correctly. According to Rightmove research, landlords who use an agent are more proactive and protected: they’re 15% more likely to review their rent annually and 9% less likely to face arrears. Over half of landlords cite “compliance” as a key reason to work with an agent, and that benefit will only grow as laws change.
At Tri Property Fusion, we pride ourselves on making lettings easy for you. We know the Dartford market, we stay current on legal requirements, and we work hard to keep great tenants long-term. (For example, by handling marketing, referencing and routine checks, we help tenants feel cared for which means they stay put.) By partnering with us, you get this expertise in 2026: ensuring your rental income and investments are maximized and compliant.
Get in Touch
If you’d like to discuss any of the above maybe a rent review, a compliance check, or simply some friendly advice please just call or email us. You can reach me directly at 0777 6117 358. We’re always here to answer your questions, arrange viewings, or help with any tenant issues.
Cheers to a successful 2026 for your rental business!
Warm regards,
Mesh Pandaram
Tri Property Fusion, Dartford
