Renters' Rights Act 2025 — England-wide obligations from 1 May 2026
- Section 21 abolished — possession requires Section 8 with a statutory ground
- Periodic Assured Tenancy Agreement required for all new tenancies from 1 May 2026
- Awaab's Law in force — mandatory timeframes for damp, mould, and hazard repairs
- Information Sheet must be served on all existing tenants by 31 May 2026
- Pet request right — respond in writing within 42 days or consent is deemed
- Civil penalties up to £40,000 per offence
- Rent increases via Section 13 Form 4A only
City of Wolverhampton Council licensing
Mandatory HMO licensing applies nationally. Check with the City of Wolverhampton Council whether additional or selective licensing applies to your property's ward before letting.
Awaab's Law and Wolverhampton's older housing stock
Wolverhampton has a high proportion of Victorian and Edwardian terraced housing in inner-city wards (Whitmore Reans, St Peter's, Heath Town). These carry elevated damp and condensation risk. Emergency hazards: 24-hour response. Urgent hazards: investigation and repair plan within the statutory period. Document all reports and repairs.
Sources
This guide is accurate as at 27 May 2026. It is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.