Alto has introduced a series of product updates aimed at helping letting agents prepare for the Renters’ Rights Act, with initial changes due to take effect on 1 May 2026.
The legislation, which received Royal Assent in October 2025, introduces changes to the private rented sector, including a shift to periodic tenancies, the removal of Section 21 evictions, limits on rent setting practices, and stricter compliance and record-keeping requirements.
Alto has incorporated these requirements into its platform, focusing on how agents manage tenancies and property records.
Owen Rogers, product director at Alto, said the changes affect how lettings operate in practice and that the aim is to reduce the need for agents to interpret legislation manually.
From May, agents will need to move away from fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies and adopt periodic agreements. The rules also restrict practices such as accepting offers above advertised rent and increase expectations around audit trails.
Alto’s updates include tools to convert existing tenancies and property records into compliant formats, and to create new tenancies in line with the legislation. The system includes controls to prevent non-compliant setups, restrict pricing that does not meet the rules, and prompt agents to record reasons for certain restrictions.
The platform also tracks compliance activity across properties and tenancies, including key dates such as rent reviews and safety checks, and records actions in an audit trail.
Legal documents within the system are updated to reflect current legislation.
According to Alto, the updates were developed with input from its customers, including both independent and multi-branch agencies, and are intended to integrate compliance into routine lettings processes.
Rogers said: “What we’re hearing from agents is that the challenge isn’t understanding the changes, it’s the operational impact. More admin, more edge cases, more risk if things go wrong.
“If your system doesn’t absorb that, your team has to. And that’s where problems start.”
With further elements of the legislation expected to be introduced in phases beyond May, Alto has positioned its approach as an ongoing capability rather than a one-off update, allowing agencies to adapt as requirements continue to evolve.
Alto has also created a Renters’ Rights Hub on its website, to help make the transition simple. Agents can use the hub to access tools, FAQs, and insights to stay ahead of the game.
