29th December 2025
This isn't every single change (there are hundreds of statutory instruments and minor adjustments each year), but it covers the major ones with direct impacts on people and businesses.
2026 is a significant year for UK legislation, with major changes across housing, employment, healthcare regulation, and sanctions compliance. These reforms affect both businesses and the general public.
1. Renters' Rights and Housing Reforms - From May 2026
A major set of tenant protection reforms begins in May 2026. These changes include:
The end of "no-fault" Section 21 evictions.
All tenancy agreements shifting towards open-ended, periodic arrangements.
Stricter rules on rent increases and notice periods.
A ban on discrimination against renters with children or on benefits.
The aim is to give renters more long-term security and stability, while improving clarity around landlord responsibilities.
2. Employment and Workplace Law Changes - From April 2026
A range of employment rights updates start from April, including:
Increases to the National Living Wage and minimum wage rates.
Higher rates for statutory maternity, paternity, and parental leave pay.
Day-one eligibility for certain workplace rights for new employees.
Expansion of worker protections and support for union recognition.
These reforms are part of a wider shift toward strengthening employee rights across the UK.
3. New Clinical Trials Regulatory Framework – April 2026
A new clinical trials regime is being introduced to modernise healthcare research rules. The goal is to speed up approval processes, maintain safety standards, and support innovation within the pharmaceutical and medical research sectors.
4. UK Sanctions List Consolidation – January 2026
From the end of January 2026, the UK Sanctions List becomes the single definitive register for sanction designations. Organisations carrying out compliance checks will be required to use this updated list going forward.
5. Other UK-Level Adjustments in 2026
Additional legislative developments in 2026 include:
Adjustments to aggregates tax rules linked to devolution arrangements.
Product regulation and measurement standard updates affecting manufacturers and suppliers.
Ongoing implementation of public safety requirements for large venues and events.
Scotland-Specific Laws Coming Into Effect in 2026
Scotland has several laws coming into force that apply only within Scottish jurisdiction due to devolved authority over areas such as transport, health, justice, and local administration.
1. Hydrolysis for Human Remains – March 2026
Scotland is introducing legal recognition for hydrolysis (water-based decomposition) as an additional method for the disposal of human remains, supported by new regulatory procedures and licensing requirements.
2. Pavement Parking and Kerbside Restrictions – April 2026
Enforcement of Scotland’s pavement parking ban will be actively implemented across local authorities. Drivers parking on pavements, blocking dropped kerbs, or double parking can face fines from April 2026.
3. PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) Membership Rules – April 2026
A new requirement means workers and volunteers in regulated roles must renew their PVG membership every five years to continue operating legally, rather than remaining enrolled indefinitely.
4. Tourism and Visitor Levy – From Summer 2026
Local councils in Scotland will be permitted to introduce a tourist or visitor levy on paid overnight stays. Edinburgh is expected to be the first to adopt the charge, with other areas likely to follow.
5. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Overhaul – Late 2026
New rules for building energy performance assessments are due to take effect near the end of 2026. These changes will update how properties are evaluated and rated for energy efficiency.
6. Restrictions on Multi-Buy Promotions of Unhealthy Food – October 2026
Scotland will introduce new regulations limiting promotional deals such as "Buy One Get One Free" on foods high in salt, fat, or sugar. Unlimited free refills of sugary drinks in hospitality settings will also be restricted.