Running a tenancy independently has always been straightforward when everything is under control. You deal with tasks as they come up and keep the property moving. But from 27 December 2025, the expectations behind that routine are set to change.
That date marks the start of the next phase of the Renters’ Rights Act, allowing councils to request key tenancy documents from the past 12 months from anyone who has been involved with managing the tenancy. For anyone who self-manages, this means ensuring every key document is complete, correctly stored and easy to access.
Hunters is helping landlords understand exactly what this change involves and how to stay ahead of it.
What councils may ask landlords to provide
When the new powers begin, local councils will be able to request tenancy documents held within the last 12 months to confirm legal duties were met.
This may include:
• Tenancy agreements
• Deposit protection certificates and prescribed information
• Right to Rent check records
• Gas safety certificates
• Electrical installation condition reports (EICRs)
• EPCs
• Repair and maintenance logs
• Legal notices
• Licensing documents where required
Why these changes matter for landlords who self-manage
When you manage a property yourself, you take on full responsibility for compliance. From 27 December 2025, that responsibility includes being able to provide clear, complete documentation across the full 12-month period when requested.
If a safety certificate is out of date, if a deposit record is incomplete or if documentation is difficult to locate, local councils may need to ask further questions. The updated legislation puts more emphasis on clear, accurate and well-kept records.
Why December is the right moment to review your records
December is one of the busiest times of the year for landlords. Winter maintenance, holiday periods, tenancy renewals and year-end commitments often compete for attention. It is also the time when paperwork is most likely to be postponed.
This year, postponing creates unnecessary risk. Because the new enforcement powers begin on 27 December, before the usual January catch-up period, taking time now to get organised helps avoid last-minute pressure.
How Hunters’ fully managed service supports landlords
Hunters has long helped landlords across the country with reliable, practical property management. As compliance becomes more detailed, our fully managed service provides a smooth and supportive way to stay organised.
With Hunters managing your property, you benefit from:
• Clear and complete documentation
• Consistent monitoring of renewal dates
• Secure storage for all essential records
• Support with any council information requests
• Ongoing guidance as legislation continues to change
It is a practical way to reduce stress and keep your property compliant throughout the year.
Why acting now sets you up for a smoother year ahead
The introduction of these new powers marks an important moment for self-managing landlords. Reviewing your documentation now ensures you are prepared long before the updated rules are in place.
Speak to your local Hunters branch to make sure your property and records are ready for the next stage of the Renters’ Rights Act.
