Did the Renters' Rights Act change landlord inspections?
No. The Act did not create a new inspection right or notice period. The rule still comes from the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, section 11(6): where the repairing covenant is implied, a landlord has a right to enter to view the home's condition and state of repair. Entry is at reasonable times of the day on 24 hours' written notice.
Which law gives landlords an inspection right?
The rules at a glanceSection 11(6) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 provides an entry right where the landlord's repairing covenant is implied.
| Subject | Rule | Conditions and source |
|---|---|---|
| Landlord entry | 24 hours' written notice | Only where the repairing covenant is implied. |
| gov.uk summaries | At least 24 hours | Both summaries describe emergency access separately. |
| Summary conviction | Up to 6 months in prison, a fine, or both | For the harassment offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. |
| Unlawful eviction or harassment | Civil penalty up to £40,000 | Available from 1 May 2026. |
| Council entry | At least 24 hours' notice | To the known owner and occupier, subject to the exception below. |
| Decent homes requirements | Not made | Power to set requirements |
| Proposed standard | 2035 or 2037 | Roadmap proposal, not law |
| Awaab's Law consultation | Opened 9 Oct 2026 | Proposed private rented extension |
Checked on 23 Oct 2026.
When can a landlord enter to view the condition?
Section 11(6) covers viewing the condition and state of repair at reasonable times of day. gov.uk's landlord guide also describes repairs and the prospect of immediate emergency access.
Does that right apply to every tenancy?
No. The repairing covenant must be implied. If unsure, agree access with the tenant in writing.
Does the notice have to be in writing?
Yes. The tenant guide and landlord guide omit those words. Follow the statute; their summaries do not establish that a call or text suffices.
Is there a set inspection interval?
The law sets no inspection frequency.
What if visits interfere with the tenant?
Under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977, the offence concerns conduct that threatens the tenant's peace or comfort. The landlord or agent must also know that the conduct creates a likelihood of the tenant leaving or not exercising their rights.
What penalty can the council use from 1 May 2026?
The table gives the civil alternative to prosecution. From 1 May 2026, councils also have a duty to enforce landlord legislation.
How is a council inspection different?
A council survey uses a separate power. For qualifying residential premises, owner notice is unnecessary, as is notice to an occupier who waived it. An unnotified owner must be told within a reasonable time afterwards. The investigatory powers guidance concerns councils, not landlord access.
Is there a decent homes standard yet?
The power exists; requirements have not been made. The proposed years in the table are not a legal deadline.
Does Awaab's Law apply to private landlords yet?
The extension remains a consultation proposal. The consultation does not establish repair deadlines for private landlords.
Which safety checks are a different duty?
Separate duties cover gas safety, electrical checks and EPC requirements.
General information, not legal advice. Laws and dates change. Check the Act before you act.
Renters' Rights Act section Back to the register