Property technology firm Goodlord has removed content from its website after publishing inaccurate guidance on the mandatory tenant information sheet required under the Renters’ Rights Act.
The error was identified by Paul Lee, a London-based letting agent at Paul Lee & Company, ahead of the 31st May deadline for landlords and agents to distribute the new information sheet to existing tenants.
Goodlord’s website had incorrectly stated that the How To Rent Guide for Assured Shorthold Tenancies had been replaced by the information sheet. In fact, the information sheet applies only to existing tenants transitioning to assured periodic tenancies under the new legislation, whilst the How to Rent Guide has been withdrawn without replacement.
Compliance requirements
The Official Information Sheet must be provided to tenants if their tenancy is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy created before 1st May 2026, or has a wholly or partly written record of terms, including a written tenancy agreement. The document explains changes to Section 21 notices, rent increases, fixed terms, tenancy termination procedures, student lets and pet ownership rights.
Lee warned that the incorrect guidance could prove costly for agents relying on it. “You can’t give that information without fact checking. It is scare tactics and it is wrong – and a potentially costly mistake,” he said. Failure to comply with the 31st May deadline could result in fines of up to £7,000.
The confusion highlights ongoing challenges within the lettings sector as agencies adapt to regulatory changes, with some firms expanding their operations whilst others navigate new compliance requirements.
Company response
A Goodlord spokesperson acknowledged the error, stating: “We have reviewed the blog post and recognise that the wording relating to the Renters’ Rights Act Information Sheet caused confusion. The content was removed as soon as this was identified and the blog has been updated accordingly.”
The Written Statement of Terms, a separate requirement, applies to new tenants or existing tenants without an existing tenancy agreement. Industry professionals have raised concerns about the complexity of the new documentation requirements and the potential for process-related issues as the sector adjusts to the regulatory framework.
With the deadline approaching, letting agents and landlords are advised to verify compliance requirements directly with official government guidance rather than relying solely on third-party interpretations.
