Cambridge is one of England's most expensive and fastest-growing rental markets, driven by the University of Cambridge (~24,000 students), Anglia Ruskin University (~36,000 students), and the Silicon Fen technology cluster. HMO demand is concentrated in Romsey, Petersfield, Mill Road, and the Anglia Ruskin campus area. Buy-to-let gross yields of 3.5–5.5% reflect very high purchase prices alongside strong professional and student rental demand. From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 and Cambridge City Council's licensing requirements create combined compliance obligations for all Cambridge landlords.
Key 2026 obligations
- Section 21 abolished — possession via Section 8 with statutory ground only
- All new tenancies must use a Periodic Assured Tenancy Agreement
- Student landlords: use Ground 4A for academic-year possession (2 months' notice within window)
- Information Sheet served on all existing tenants by 31 May 2026
- Cambridge City Council additional HMO licensing in designated areas — check postcode before letting
- Mandatory HMO licensing for 5+ occupant, 2+ household properties (applies nationally)
- Civil penalties up to £40,000 for PRS non-compliance
- Awaab's Law mandatory response timeframes — significant for Victorian terraced stock in Mill Road and Romsey