What Stone landlords need to know right now
If you own rental property in Stone — whether that is a Victorian terrace off Lichfield Road, a modern let near the town centre, or a family home in Walton or Aston — 2026 marks a pivotal moment for your investment.
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is now law, and it represents the most far-reaching reform of the private rented sector in a generation. For landlords managing properties across the ST15 postcode, understanding exactly what has changed — and acting accordingly — is no longer optional.
This guide from Belvoir Stone cuts through the complexity to give you a practical, locally relevant breakdown of everything that matters.
The end of Section 21: What it means for Stone landlords
The abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions is the headline change most landlords have heard about. Under the old framework, landlords could serve a Section 21 notice to end a tenancy without providing a specific reason. That route is now closed.
For Stone landlords, this shift requires a more proactive approach to tenancy management from day one. If you need to regain possession of your property, you must now rely on the grounds set out under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988, which have been expanded and strengthened under the new legislation.
Key Section 8 grounds to understand
The Act has introduced new mandatory grounds and revised existing ones. Landlords can now pursue possession where they wish to sell the property, move in a close family member, or where the tenant has accrued significant rent arrears.
Crucially, these grounds come with specific notice periods and evidential requirements. Keeping meticulous tenancy records — from the outset of every tenancy — is now essential for every landlord in Stone, regardless of portfolio size.
From Assured Shorthold Tenancies to periodic tenancies
From 1 May 2026, the vast majority of new and existing assured private rented tenancies became assured periodic tenancies, subject to the legislation’s exclusions and transitional provisions.
This means fixed-term contracts are a thing of the past. Tenants can give two months’ notice to leave at any point, while landlords must rely on the revised Section 8 grounds to seek possession.
What this means in practice for your ST15 property
For landlords in Stone’s rental market, this change demands a rethink of how tenancies are structured and managed. The days of relying on a fixed end date to review rents, refresh tenants, or carry out refurbishments need to be replaced with a more planned, ongoing management strategy.
Belvoir Stone works with landlords across the town — from smaller portfolios of one or two properties to larger multi-property investors — to build management frameworks that are fully aligned with the new periodic model.
The Decent Homes Standard comes to the private rented sector
For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard — previously applicable only to social housing — now applies to private rented properties. This is particularly significant for Stone landlords whose stock includes older housing.
Stone’s conservation area, its Victorian terraces, and its older period properties along the High Street and surrounding streets are characterful and in high demand — but they also carry a higher risk of falling short of the new standard if not properly maintained.
What the Decent Homes Standard requires
A property must be free from serious hazards, in a reasonable state of repair, have reasonably modern facilities, and provide a reasonable degree of thermal comfort. Local councils have been given stronger enforcement powers to act where landlords fail to meet this standard.
Landlords with older stock in Stone should carry out a thorough property audit now if they have not already done so. Identifying and addressing issues proactively — rather than reactively following an enforcement notice — protects both your tenants and your investment.
Protecting your rental yield in a more regulated market
A more regulated environment does not have to mean reduced returns. Stone remains an attractive rental market, benefiting from strong and consistent tenant demand driven by its proximity to Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent employment hubs, excellent transport links via the A34 and Stone railway station, and a genuine community feel that appeals to long-term renters.
According to Rightmove’s 2026 rental data, average asking rents across Staffordshire have continued to rise year-on-year, reflecting sustained demand across the region. Stone, sitting between two major employment centres, continues to attract professional tenants and families seeking quality rental homes.
Strategies to maintain strong returns
Landlords who invest in compliance — keeping properties well maintained, meeting EPC requirements, and staying ahead of legislative changes — consistently attract and retain better-quality, longer-term tenants. Lower void periods and reduced tenant turnover directly support your yield.
Reviewing your rental pricing regularly is also critical. The Act introduces a new rent increase mechanism, limiting landlords to one rent increase per year and requiring proper notice. Working with a local letting agent who understands both the legislation and the Stone rental market will help you maximise rent lawfully and competitively.
Portfolio landlords: Additional considerations
If you manage multiple properties across Stone and the wider ST15 area, the compliance burden scales accordingly. From maintaining individual property records to managing multiple Section 8 possession grounds across different tenancies, the administrative demands are real.
Belvoir Stone supports portfolio landlords with structured management services designed to ensure every property in your portfolio remains compliant, well-maintained, and performing at its best.
Practical steps for Stone landlords to take today
The legislation is in force. The time for preparation is now. Here is what Belvoir Stone recommends for every landlord in Stone, Walton, Aston, and across the ST15 postcode:
Review all existing tenancy documentation and ensure records are complete and up to date.
Carry out a decent homes standard assessment on all properties, particularly older and period stock.
Understand the Section 8 grounds relevant to your circumstances and ensure you have the evidence to support them if needed.
Review your rental pricing in line with the new annual increase rules.
Speak to a qualified local letting agent to ensure your management approach is fully aligned with the new legislation.
Your local letting partner in Stone
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is a significant change, but it is also an opportunity. Landlords who adapt quickly, manage their properties to a high standard, and work with knowledgeable local professionals will continue to thrive in Stone’s rental market.
Belvoir Stone has been supporting landlords across Stone and the surrounding area for years, and our team has the local knowledge and legislative expertise to help you navigate every aspect of the new framework — whether you own one property or a growing portfolio.
If you would like to understand what your ST15 rental property is worth in today’s market, book a free, no-obligation rental valuation with Belvoir Stone today. Our team will provide an accurate, up-to-date assessment based on current local demand and the latest legislative context.
To discuss how the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 affects your specific circumstances, or to explore our full property management services in Stone, get in touch with the Belvoir Stone branch directly. We are here to help you stay compliant, protect your investment, and make the most of everything Stone’s rental market has to offer.
