Being a landlord in 2026 isn’t what it used to be. In Portsmouth, especially in busy rental hotspots like Cosham, Hilsea and North End, local landlords are navigating a very different landscape this year. With new legislation now in place and stricter energy efficiency rules being enforced, many are asking the same question – is it still worth it?
If you’ve been wondering how the end of Section 21 or the EPC C deadline affects your portfolio, you’re not alone. This guide breaks down the two biggest challenges facing landlords this year, and more importantly, how to manage them with confidence.
A year of change: what landlords need to know in 2026
Two major changes are defining the rental market in 2026 – the full introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act and the ramping up of enforcement on EPC C standards for rental properties.
Together, they signal a shift in how landlords must operate. Passive income is now an active responsibility, and professional management is no longer a nice-to-have – it’s essential for staying compliant and profitable.
What the Renters’ Rights Act 2026 means for Portsmouth landlords
The Renters’ Rights Act, now fully in force, brings some of the most significant reforms to landlord legislation in over a decade. If you’ve let property for years, this new framework might feel like a complete reset.
Here’s what’s changed:
- Section 21 has been abolished – landlords can no longer serve a no-fault eviction notice.
- All tenancies are now periodic – no more fixed-term contracts.
- New notice periods apply – and they’re longer in most cases.
- Stronger grounds for eviction are required – such as consistent rent arrears or anti-social behaviour.
- More responsibility on repairs and tenant wellbeing – including permissions for pets and increased expectations around living standards.
Local councils, including Portsmouth City Council, are increasing enforcement on substandard housing and delays in maintenance. That means more inspections, more fines, and more pressure on landlords who self-manage.
What landlords are saying: According to recent NRLA data, 42% of landlords in the South East are planning to reduce their portfolio or leave the market entirely in 2026 due to increased regulation.
Is your property ready for EPC C?
The government originally aimed for all new tenancies to meet an EPC rating of C or above by 2025. Although the legal deadline was delayed, 2026 has seen a sharp increase in enforcement and tenant demand for better energy efficiency.
In Portsmouth – where a large share of the housing stock was built before 1950 – many rental homes still fall short.
If your property has an EPC of D or below, you could soon find it harder to let, or be pushed to upgrade under new licensing conditions.
EPC C requirements typically include:
- Improved loft or cavity wall insulation.
- Double glazing and draught-proofing.
- Efficient boilers and smart heating controls.
- LED lighting and other low-energy systems.
The average cost to bring a mid-terrace Portsmouth home up to EPC C is £4,700, according to BEIS. However, many upgrades also improve tenant satisfaction, reduce voids, and protect property value.
Don’t want to upgrade it alone? Get support from our EPC review and upgrade network.
Stress, compliance and shrinking yield: the landlord pressure points
These changes aren’t just theoretical – they’re affecting landlords on the ground. We’ve spoken to landlords in Hilsea, North End and Cosham who are feeling the pressure.
Here’s what’s causing the most stress:
- Time – keeping up with new laws, tenant communication, and paperwork is overwhelming.
- Compliance – not knowing whether you’re doing everything correctly.
- Costs – upgrades, repairs and void periods eat into margins.
- Confidence – after a decade of change, many landlords feel uncertain about the future.
These concerns are especially common among accidental landlords and those with one or two properties. Without a professional buffer, it’s easy to fall foul of new rules or feel like letting is more hassle than it’s worth.
Portsmouth property management services: why now is the time to outsource
Professional property management isn’t just about collecting rent – it’s about futureproofing your investment.
At Northwood Portsmouth, we offer a fully managed service designed to remove landlord stress, boost tenant satisfaction, and make sure your property stays legally compliant and income-generating.
Our property management services in Portsmouth include:
- Full legal compliance checks and documentation.
- Rent collection, arrears management and renewals.
- Handling maintenance, inspections and emergency repairs.
- EPC and energy efficiency reviews.
- Advice on eviction and possession under the new rules.
- Marketing and tenant referencing for high-demand areas.
We know the Portsmouth rental market inside out – and we understand what landlords need to stay in the game. From helping landlords navigate EPC grants to advising on Section 8 possession, we act as your partner every step of the way.
Looking for reliable Portsmouth property management services? Book a free landlord consultation with Northwood today.
Should you sell or hold your Portsmouth rental in 2026?
Many landlords are at a crossroads this year. With rising costs and tighter legislation, it’s tempting to sell up. But it’s not always the best financial move – especially in high-demand zones.
Let’s weigh it up.
Reasons to sell:
- You’ve reached retirement and no longer want the responsibility.
- Your property requires costly EPC upgrades you can’t justify.
- You’re not achieving the yield you want and prefer to cash out.
Reasons to hold:
- Your property is in a sought-after area like Cosham or North End with strong rental demand.
- You’re open to upgrading and improving energy performance.
- You partner with a managing agent who can take care of compliance.
At Northwood, we help landlords make these decisions. We’re not here to push one route – we’re here to give you the facts, so you can choose with clarity.
Whether you let or sell, get the local insight you need with a no-obligation chat with our expert team.
Your 2026 landlord action plan
To stay ahead this year, we recommend landlords take the following steps:
- Review your EPC rating.
Check your property’s current rating and whether it meets future standards. If not, get quotes and explore funding options. - Reassess your tenancy agreements and notice procedures.
Make sure you’re operating under the new periodic tenancy framework and that your processes align with current law. - Decide how you’ll manage your property going forward.
Self-managing may no longer be feasible. Partnering with a local property management service could reduce risk and workload. - Talk to Northwood Portsmouth.
Book a free rental appraisal or management review to get a clearer picture of your options.
Conclusion: 2026 doesn’t have to be a crisis for landlords – it can be a turning point.
The landscape is shifting, but that doesn’t mean letting has to be a burden. With the right guidance, support and planning, landlords in Portsmouth can not only survive 2026 – they can thrive.
Whether you need help navigating the Renters’ Rights Act, upgrading to EPC C, or simply getting your evenings and weekends back, we’re here to help.
Let us manage the legislation, while you enjoy the return.
Book your free landlord consultation with Northwood Portsmouth today.
