The government has issued what it calls “the official Information Sheet that landlords and their agents must give to tenants.”
It is designed to help private landlords and letting agents in England understand what they need to do under the Renters Rights Act.
The Information Sheet is a document produced by the government for tenants. It explains how their tenancy may be affected by the changes introduced by the Act.
The government has issued what it calls “the official Information Sheet that landlords and their agents must give to tenants.”
It is designed to help private landlords and letting agents in England understand what they need to do under the Renters Rights Act.
The Information Sheet is a document produced by the government for tenants. It explains how their tenancy may be affected by the changes introduced by the Act.
The government says “if you are a landlord and have a letting agent who manages the property on your behalf, then the agent must provide the Information Sheet to the tenant, even if you have also provided it.”
The Information Sheet must be given out if the tenancy:
- is an assured or assured shorthold tenancy
- was created before 1 May 2026
- has a wholly or partly written record of terms (including a written tenancy agreement)
And the government adds that you must give this Information Sheet by 31 May 2026, or you could be fined up to £7,000.
Specifically, it adds “a copy must be given to every tenant named on the tenancy agreement.”
The Information Sheet is only valid when downloaded from the official government release.
You must provide this to the tenants by either:
- printing a hard copy, which is posted or given to the tenants by hand
- sending the PDF electronically as an attachment, for example, to an email or text message.
It adds “you must not email or text a link to the PDF to the tenant, as this will not be valid.”
The legislation does not require you to change or re-issue any existing written tenancy agreement.
If you have a tenancy based entirely on a verbal agreement, that was made before 1 May 2026, then you cannot give this Information Sheet.
You must provide certain written information about key terms of the tenancy instead.
Why this matters for agents
For letting agents, this represents a portfolio-wide operational challenge. Agencies will need to:
- Identify all tenancies requiring the Information Sheet
- Coordinate distribution across large portfolios
- Ensure audit trails are in place
- Handle tenant queries as awareness increases
What you should do now
Letting agents and landlords should act early to stay ahead:
- Audit your portfolio – Identify all active tenancies
- Prepare distribution systems – Email, portals, or physical delivery
- Keep records – Maintain clear evidence of service
- Brief landlords – Ensure they understand their responsibilities
- Train staff – Equip teams to handle questions confidently
Smart technology is number one choice for tenants
More and more tenants are prioritising technology in the homes they choose.
That’s the claim from PropTech firm Rently. It says 65% claim smart home tech makes a rental more appealing.
“Connected homes are no longer a luxury, they’ve become a core expectation for many tenants. From app-controlled heating to remote security systems, tenants increasingly view technology as part of their standard quality of life” says Simon Cairnes of BuyAssociation.
Why smart features are becoming a must-have
He continues to say “convenience is a huge driver. Tenants want control over their home environment, whether that’s heating, lighting or security, without leaving the sofa. Smart home tech provides that in a way traditional systems simply can’t.
Smart locks, doorbell cameras and app-based security give renters peace of mind, while smart thermostats and lighting reduce energy costs. In today’s market, these features aren’t just about comfort, they’re about financial sense too.”
What are tenants willing to pay for?
Tenants are increasingly prepared to pay for technology that adds real value. We’re seeing a willingness to spend extra each month for homes that are modern, secure, and energy-efficient. Features like smart heating, locks, lighting, and even integrated appliances can justify a noticeable rent premium.
For younger renters and tech-savvy professionals, a tech-ready home isn’t just convenient, it’s part of the lifestyle they want. Properties that don’t offer this risk being overlooked, even if the rent is lower.
The investment opportunity
Smart home upgrades can directly improve yields and tenant retention. When renters feel a property fits their lifestyle, controlled via apps, energy efficient and secure, they’re more likely to stay longer, reducing void periods and turnover costs.
Connected systems can help landlords proactively manage maintenance. Sensors that detect leaks, for example, prevent small issues from turning into costly repairs, protecting both tenants and property value.
Implementing smart upgrades effectively
Investors don’t need to overhaul every property overnight. Start with high-impact features that matter most to renters, smart locks, heating controls and security cameras. Once you see tenant engagement, expand into energy management, automated lighting or integrated appliances.
It’s not enough to simply install tech. Tenants need to understand the benefits. Highlight these features in listings and viewings to justify the premium and show the property is built for modern living.
The long-term outlook
As smart home adoption becomes more widespread, properties that remain traditional risk falling behind. Landlords who embrace this now will benefit from stronger rental income, improved retention, and future-proofed asset value.
Tenants are voting with their wallets, and connected, energy-efficient homes are increasingly non-negotiable. Investors who recognise this shift early can not only meet demand but also strengthen their long-term portfolio performance.