Housing law: an overview in England
Please note that this guidance is intended to be used for general information purposes only, is not intended to be a definitive guide to the law and cannot be a substitute for independent advice. NFU members can obtain free initial legal and professional advice from NFU CallFirst on 0370 845 8458.
This business guide provides an overview of the types of tenancy that apply in private sector housing in England. It also discusses various maintenance and repair obligations that apply to all housing tenancies.
We have other business guides which explore housing law in further detail, which are:
- Setting up an Assured Shorthold Tenancy in England at: https://www.nfuonline.com/member-resources/housing-law-setting-up-an-assured-shorthold-tenancy-in-england/
- Terminating an Assured Shorthold Tenancy in England at: https://www.nfuonline.com/member-resources/housing-law-terminating-an-assured-shorthold-tenancy-in-england/
- Housing agricultural workers in England at: https://www.nfuonline.com/member-resources/housing-law-housing-agricultural-workers-in-england/
Please note that the information in this business guide applies to properties let in England only.
Housing law is changing. The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (RRA) gained Royal Assent on 27 October 2025 and the government has now set out a phased timetable for implementing the various changes. Except where otherwise indicated, this guide deals with the law as at the date of publication. Members wanting to know more about the upcoming changes should contact CallFirst on 0370 845 8458.