Renting in Southwell — your rights as a tenant in 2026
Southwell is a small Nottinghamshire minster town with a very tight, expensive rental market. The Minster and conservation area restrict development, and the town flooded in 2013 from the River Greet.
1,500 households
Private renter households
Common issues for Southwell renters
⚠Very limited supply
⚠High rents for small town
⚠Minster conservation restrictions
⚠Period property maintenance
⚠Flood risk
How the Renters' Rights Act affects Southwell
From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 brings major changes for every private tenant in Southwell. Here's what matters most:
No-fault evictions abolished. Your landlord can no longer use Section 21 to evict you without a reason. They must prove a valid ground under Section 8.
Rent increases limited. Your landlord can only increase rent once per year, via a formal Section 13 notice with 2 months' warning. You can challenge unfair increases at a tribunal.
Periodic tenancies for all. All tenancies become rolling month-to-month. You can leave with 2 months' notice at any time — no more being locked into a fixed term.
Right to request a pet. Blanket pet bans are no longer enforceable. Your landlord must consider your request fairly.
Rental bidding banned. Landlords must advertise a set price and cannot accept offers above it.
Your local council
Newark and Sherwood District Council
Environmental Health / Private Renting Team: 01636 650000
If your landlord is not maintaining your property, your deposit is not protected, or you are being threatened with illegal eviction, contact your council's Environmental Health team. They have the power to inspect properties, issue improvement notices, and prosecute landlords who fail to comply.
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