This guidance reflects the Renters' Rights Act 2025, in force from 1 May 2026. What has changed?
The six core principles that underpin every stage of the Rent Arrears Framework and the standards that adopters are expected to follow.
These principles apply to all parties using the framework. They are not aspirational — they describe the standard of conduct that the framework requires at every stage of the arrears process.
All parties should be clear about the situation at each stage. Landlords should communicate the amount of arrears, the steps being taken, and the potential consequences of inaction. Tenants should be given sufficient information to understand what is expected of them and what will happen if they do not engage.
Transparency reduces misunderstanding and the risk of dispute about what was communicated and when.
Arrears situations should be managed in a consistent manner. A structured, stage-based process ensures that landlords do not act arbitrarily and that tenants are treated fairly regardless of the circumstances of the individual tenancy.
Consistency also protects landlords by ensuring their process is defensible if challenged in court.
Good record-keeping is essential. Every stage of the arrears process should be documented — communications, notices, arrangements, and responses. Records should be retained throughout the tenancy and for a reasonable period thereafter.
Documentation protects both parties. It provides evidence that the landlord followed a proper process. It also creates a clear record of any arrangements agreed by the tenant.
Escalation should be proportionate to the circumstances. Where arrears are recent and a tenant is engaging, early resolution should be pursued before formal steps are taken. Formal notice and legal action are appropriate only where earlier stages have been completed without resolution.
The framework does not preclude prompt action where the situation warrants it. Where arrears are substantial, where a tenant is persistently non-communicative, or where previous arrangements have repeatedly broken down, escalation is appropriate.
The framework places particular emphasis on resolution at the earliest possible stage. Court proceedings are time-consuming, costly, and stressful for all parties. They should be a last resort, not a first response.
Landlords and agents following the framework should make genuine efforts to engage with tenants, explore repayment options, and resolve arrears before formal legal action becomes necessary.
Tenants should be informed at each stage of what will happen if the matter is not resolved. This is not a threat. It is a requirement of fair process. A tenant who understands the consequences of inaction is better placed to make an informed decision about how to respond.
Landlords should communicate consequences clearly and factually, without using threatening or emotive language.
Organisations and individuals who adopt the Rent Arrears Framework commit to managing arrears situations in accordance with these six principles at every stage of the process.
The principles are not a checklist to be completed once — they describe an ongoing standard of conduct that applies from the first missed payment through to resolution or, where necessary, formal legal proceedings.