Student HMO landlords will be able to use a temporary two-month notice period under Ground 4A (the student possession ground) when the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force, which will alleviate the stress over what we were going to do this year fearing tenants wouldn’t move out on time. The concession applies to tenancies signed before 1 May 2026, with two months’ notice able to be served between 1 May and 31 July. After that, the standard four-month notice period will apply. Possession under Ground 4A can only be sought between 1 June and 30 September, helping ensure properties are available for the new academic year.
For student HMOs with fixed terms ending on or after 31 July, a Section 8 notice using Ground 4A can be served from 1 May, using the prescribed form available on gov.uk.
Landlords must also notify tenants in writing if they intend to rely on Ground 4A and provide the Government’s published guidance on the new rules by 31 May alongside issuing the necessary government guidance to existing and newly agreed tenancies.
Finally… something positive!
