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Signing a tenancy. Photo for illustration. Photo from Pexels.
When renting from a private landlord in Swindon, you have the same rights as any renter in England. Since 1 May 2026, most tenancies roll on with no fixed end date, section 21 evictions have ended, and you can leave with two months’ notice. Your deposit must be protected within 30 days.
This is a general guide, not legal adviceRules change and every tenancy is different. For help with a specific problem, contact Shelter, Citizens Advice or Swindon Borough Council’s private housing team.
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What changed for private renters in May 2026?
From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act changed private renting in England. These are the main changes for tenants.
| Change | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Periodic tenancies | Most tenancies roll on with no fixed end date |
| No section 21 | Landlords need a legal reason to end a tenancy |
| Two months’ notice | You can leave with two months’ notice |
| Rent rises | Once a year, with two months’ notice on a special form |
| Rent in advance | No more than one month before you move in |
| Rent bidding | Landlords cannot ask for or accept more than the advertised rent |
| Pets | You can ask, and the landlord needs a good reason to refuse |
| Discrimination | You cannot be refused for having children or claiming benefits |
Source: Shelter, Renters’ Rights Act changes.
How is your deposit protected in Swindon?
Your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receiving it. They must also give you prescribed information, including which scheme holds it.
- Three schemes are approved: the Deposit Protection Service, mydeposits and the Tenancy Deposit Scheme
- Most deposits are capped at five weeks’ rent
- A holding deposit is capped at one week’s rent
- Each scheme offers a free dispute service at the end of the tenancy
Check the rules on GOV.UK tenancy deposit protection.
Take dated photos of every room when you move in. Photo from Pexels.
What must a private landlord in Swindon repair?
A private landlord must keep the structure, heating, hot water, gas and electrics safe and in working order. They must carry out an annual gas safety check and fit a smoke alarm on every floor.
Report repairs in writing and keep copies. If a landlord does not act on a serious problem, Swindon Borough Council’s private housing team can inspect the property.
How can you check a private landlord in Swindon?
Check a private landlord before you pay anything. Ask for ID, proof they own or manage the property, and the gas safety record and EPC.
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From 15 December 2026, a national register of private landlords starts opening region by region, according to the NRLA. Read our guide to avoiding private rental scams in Swindon.
Tips for private renters in Swindon
Put everything in writingRequests for repairs, pet requests and notice to leave should all be in writing, with copies kept. If a rent rise looks high, compare it with the average rent in Swindon.
Diary your deposit deadlineCount 30 days from when you paid the deposit. If you have not heard which scheme holds it, ask.
Photograph the inventoryTake dated photos of every room on the day you move in. They are your best evidence at the end.
What if you need somewhere to stay between tenancies?
If there is a gap between tenancies, a furnished serviced home can bridge it without a tenancy. Esho Stays has homes in Cirencester, about 25 minutes from Swindon, from £100 a night, bookable by the week.
See our guide to private rentals in Swindon for the search itself.
Frequently asked questions
Can a private landlord in Swindon still evict me?
Yes, but only with a legal reason under section 8, such as rent arrears or the landlord wanting to sell or move in. Section 21 “no fault” notices could not be served after 30 April 2026. Notice periods depend on the reason, for example four months if the landlord wants to sell or move in.
How much notice do I need to give my Swindon landlord?
In most cases you need to give two months’ notice to leave, unless your landlord agrees in writing to a shorter period. Give notice in writing and keep a copy. Break clauses in agreements signed before 1 May 2026 can no longer be used.
What can I do if my landlord does not protect my deposit?
If your deposit is not protected within 30 days, or you were not given the prescribed information, you may be able to claim compensation through the county court. Ask your landlord which scheme holds it first, then contact Shelter or Citizens Advice for help.
Can my landlord refuse to let me keep a pet?
Your landlord can only refuse a pet request with a good reason, and normally has four weeks to reply in writing. Make the request in writing with a description of the pet. Some landlords ask you to take out pet damage insurance, so check what is reasonable.
Next step
Between homes in Swindon?
Tell us your dates, and we will check our furnished homes in Cirencester, about 25 minutes away.
