What Happens If Your Landlord Changes in England?

As a renter in England, discovering your landlord has sold the property or changed can feel unsettling, especially if you are worried about rent increases, eviction risk, or ongoing repairs. This guide explains what happens to your tenancy if the landlord changes, so you know your rights and what action to take.

Understanding What Happens If Your Landlord Changes

When a rented property changes ownership, the new owner becomes your landlord. This is known as a ‘change of landlord’ or a ‘transfer of ownership’. Whether you have an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) or another tenancy type, your existing tenancy agreement stays in force—your rights and obligations don’t automatically change just because the owner does.

Key Points for Renters

• Your current tenancy agreement (including rent, length, and terms) remains valid with the new landlord.
• You must be told who to pay rent to and how to contact your new landlord.
• Your deposit must continue to be protected in a government-approved scheme.
• The new landlord inherits all legal responsibilities, including repairs.
• If you were previously served with official notices (e.g., Section 21), the new landlord must re-serve them if they still want possession.

In short, a change of landlord does not end your tenancy or reduce your rights.

Your Tenancy Agreement and Deposit Protection

Under the Housing Act 1988, most private renters have Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs). The contract you signed is still enforceable with the new landlord, and all its terms apply.

Deposit protection is vital. Your deposit must remain in a government-backed scheme, even if the landlord changes. The new landlord should confirm where your deposit is held. For more, see official guidance on deposit protection.

Notifying You and Updating Details

By law, your new landlord or their agent must provide their name and address within a reasonable time. If you request these details in writing, they must respond within 21 days. If you don't know who to pay rent to, continue making payments as usual and keep records.

Relevant Official Form: Request for Landlord's Address (Section 1 Notice)

• Name: Request for landlord’s name and address (no official form number)
• Use: If you don't know your new landlord’s address, you can make a written request under Section 1 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
• Example: "I am your tenant at [address]. Please provide your full name and address as required by the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, section 1." Send this in writing (email or post) and keep a copy.

What About Repair Requests or Ongoing Disputes?

The new landlord is legally bound to honour your tenancy’s repair obligations and must address any reported problems. If unresolved, you can contact your local council’s private rented housing team for enforcement help. See the official repairs guidance for additional steps.

Eviction Notices and Changes in Ownership

• If you’ve received a Section 21 (no fault) or Section 8 notice before the change of landlord, the new landlord will normally have to issue a new notice for it to be legally valid.
• You cannot be evicted just because the property has been sold or the landlord has changed. The usual possession rules and notice periods still apply.

If you are worried about an eviction notice served after a landlord change, consider seeking advice immediately from your local council or Citizens Advice.

Relevant Official Form: Section 21 Notice

• Name: Form 6A — Notice seeking possession of a property let on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (Section 21 Housing Act 1988)
• Use: Landlords use this form to legally evict tenants under a no-fault procedure. If ownership changes, the new landlord must issue a fresh Form 6A for a legal eviction.
• Official Source: Download Form 6A from GOV.UK

Taking Action if Your Landlord Changes

• Keep paying your rent and keep records of payments.
• If you’re not informed of the new landlord, make a written request (Section 1 Notice).
• Check your deposit is still protected and ask for confirmation in writing.
• Report urgent repairs or issues through written communication (email or post).
• If you suspect foul play (e.g. unlawful eviction), contact your local council housing team immediately.

FAQ: Landlord Change and Your Rights

1. Can my rent be increased by the new landlord?
   Not automatically. The new landlord must follow the proper legal process to raise rent, including serving notice and, if you are on a periodic tenancy, using the appropriate form for rent increase. See more at the official rent increase guidance.
2. Is my deposit still protected if the landlord changes?
   Yes. The deposit must remain in a registered government scheme. Confirm with the new landlord and request evidence if unsure.
3. Can the new landlord evict me straight away?
   No. The change of ownership does not change your protection from eviction. The new landlord must follow the legal possession process and, in most cases, serve a valid eviction notice (such as Form 6A).
4. Do I need to sign a new tenancy agreement?
   No, unless both you and the new landlord choose to do so. Your existing agreement remains valid and binding.
5. What if I do not know who owns the property now?
   You can make a formal written request for the landlord’s details under Section 1 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. If not provided, seek support from your local council.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Official GOV.UK private renting hub – Advice on all aspects of renting, including deposit protection and repairs.
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Handles disputes over rent, repairs, and more.
• Citizens Advice housing help – Free, confidential guidance on any housing or tenancy concern.
• Your local council’s private rented housing service – Search for your local council at Find your local council.

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1. Housing Act 1988 (England)
2. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 1: Landlord’s name and address
3. Form 6A: Assured Shorthold Tenancy Notice
4. Tenancy Deposit Protection Schemes
5. Repairs in Private Renting – GOV.UK

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