Renting in Portsmouth — your rights as a tenant in 2026
Portsmouth has one of the highest proportions of private rental housing in England, particularly around the university area of Southsea. HMO density is a significant issue, and the council has introduced additional licensing.
£1,000
Average monthly rent
5
Common tenant issues
40,000 households
Private renter households
Common issues for Portsmouth renters
⚠HMO density and overcrowding
⚠Student accommodation standards
⚠Deposit disputes
⚠Disrepair
⚠Damp in island properties
How the Renters' Rights Act affects Portsmouth
From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 brings major changes for every private tenant in Portsmouth. 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
Portsmouth City Council
Environmental Health / Private Renting Team: 023 9282 2251
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.
Got a Portsmouth tenancy agreement to hand?
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Moving in? Essentials for your new rental
Setting up a new rental in Portsmouth? Here are the items experienced tenants recommend having from day one. Tip: Take a video walkthrough of every room on your phone before unpacking — timestamped evidence wins deposit disputes.