Who needs to give it
- Landlords (or their agents) of assured or assured shorthold tenancies that have written terms, existing before 1 May 2026.
- For tenancies agreed verbally before 1 May 2026: give written information about key terms instead, by the same deadline.
- For tenancies that became assured periodic after 1 May 2026 (for example after an invalid notice or when court proceedings ended): within one month.
- Not needed for lodgers, or for new tenancies from 1 May 2026 (they get the written information instead).
How to give it validly
- Print it and hand it over or post it, or
- Email the PDF itself as an attachment.
- Do not email or text a link to the PDF: GOV.UK says this is not valid.
- Give it to each tenant named on the tenancy, and keep proof (a dated email, a signed receipt or proof of postage).
Renters' Rights Act information sheet: what it covers
It explains to tenants the move to periodic tenancies, the end of section 21, how rent increases now work, notice rules and other new rights. Do not edit it; give the official version.
Related duties: written statement for new tenancies, penalties, full checklist.
Questions landlords ask
What is the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet?
A government-produced document explaining the new rules to tenants. Landlords of existing written assured or assured shorthold tenancies had to give it to their tenants by 31 May 2026.
What was the Renters’ Rights Act information sheet deadline?
31 May 2026. GOV.UK says that if you did not give it, you could be fined up to £7,000.
I missed the deadline. What now?
Give it now, in a valid way, and keep proof. Being late does not undo the breach, but continuing not to give it keeps the risk open. If a tenancy became periodic after 1 May 2026 (for example after an invalid notice), you have one month to give it.
Can I email a link to the information sheet?
No. GOV.UK says you must not email or text a link to the PDF, as this will not be valid. Send the PDF as an attachment, post it, or hand over a printed copy.
Do I need it for a new tenancy?
No. For tenancies starting on or after 1 May 2026 you must instead give the required written information before the tenancy is agreed. See the written statement guide.
Does it apply to lodgers?
No. GOV.UK lists lodgers, and social tenancies that are social lettings, as exceptions.
Sources
Last checked 28 Sep 2026. Information, not legal advice. Official pages change; follow the source link before you act.