The new year brings fresh opportunity, and for landlords in Leamington Spa, January 2026 could be one of the most important months in the rental calendar. As thousands of students at Warwick University begin their search for next year’s accommodation, and legislative reforms loom large on the horizon, landlords must move early to protect their income and stay compliant.
This guide explores the 2026 landscape for buy-to-let landlords and property investors in CV31 and the wider Leamington area. From the Warwick student housing surge to EPC upgrades and the Renters’ Rights Act, we outline what you need to do now to stay ahead.
Why January is the golden window for landlords in Leamington Spa
January isn’t just the start of a new year – it’s the peak month for students searching for 2026–27 accommodation. Rightmove and Zoopla data consistently show that the first few weeks of the year are the busiest for rental enquiries, especially in student-heavy markets like Leamington.
At Martin & Co Leamington Spa, we see a sharp spike in student lettings activity as soon as the Christmas holidays end. Warwick University students start booking in groups, looking for well-located, energy-efficient properties within walking distance of transport links or campus buses. Most of the best homes are gone by mid-February.
If your rental property is not marketed by then, you risk longer voids, lower rents and a reduced pool of applicants. Acting now means better tenants, stronger yields and less stress later in the year.
Understanding the student market: Warwick University in 2026
With over 28,000 students enrolled at Warwick University, demand for student accommodation in Leamington remains high. While new PBSA (purpose-built student accommodation) options are being developed, many students still prefer shared houses with friends – especially in neighbourhoods like CV31, South Leamington and Clarendon.
What students want in 2026:
- EPC-rated homes that help reduce energy bills
- Fast Wi-Fi, modern kitchens and good communal space
- Proximity to bus routes and nightlife
- Responsive landlords or letting agents
Student groups are also more organised than ever. With many searching via university Facebook groups and housing platforms, your listing must be visible, attractive and available early in the year.
Energy performance and EPC reforms: the 2026 deadline
One of the biggest changes on the horizon for landlords is the likely introduction of tighter Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rules.
The government has proposed a new minimum EPC rating of C for all new tenancies, potentially from as early as 2026. While this hasn’t yet passed into law, it’s clear that energy efficiency is no longer optional – it’s essential for compliance, tenant appeal and marketability.
Landlords in Leamington Spa should begin upgrading now. Waiting until changes are enforced could mean higher costs, more disruption and the risk of not being able to let your property at all.
Simple EPC upgrade ideas:
- Install LED lighting and low-flow water fixtures
- Add loft and wall insulation
- Replace old boilers with energy-efficient models
- Fit double glazing where possible
Our team can help you assess your EPC and suggest practical upgrades that won’t break the bank.
How EPC ratings impact student and professional lets
Tenants are becoming far more energy-conscious, and with rising utility costs, many students and young professionals are actively searching for homes with good EPC ratings. Properties rated A to C are more attractive, command higher rents and let faster.
For landlords, a higher EPC not only boosts your property’s appeal – it protects your yield. Rightmove data shows that homes with an EPC C or above typically let 10% faster than those rated D or lower.
In a competitive market like Leamington Spa, that difference can be worth thousands over a year.
Renters’ Rights Act: what landlords need to prepare for
Another major shift on the horizon is the Renters’ Rights Act, set to bring wide-ranging reforms to the private rental sector.
The key changes proposed include:
- Abolishing Section 21 (no-fault) evictions
- Creating open-ended tenancies as standard
- Greater rights for tenants to request pets
- A new Ombudsman and property portal
While not yet law, these updates are likely to become reality within the next 18 to 24 months. Landlords should prepare now by reviewing their processes and working with a qualified letting agent who understands the new regulations.
At Martin & Co Leamington Spa, we stay up to date on compliance to ensure your properties and tenancies are fully protected.
Student or professional tenants: which is best in 2026?
Leamington Spa offers a healthy mix of student and professional tenants. But as energy and compliance demands increase, some landlords are considering a switch to professional lets.
Student lets:
- Higher yields
- Fixed tenancy periods (e.g. 12 months)
- Typically managed as HMOs
- Higher wear and tear
Professional lets:
- Often longer-term tenants
- Lower maintenance demands
- More flexible on move-in dates
- May prefer higher EPC ratings
It comes down to your property type and investment goals. We can help assess your portfolio to recommend the most suitable approach.
Rental yields in CV31: where are the opportunities?
According to Zoopla’s latest data, the average gross yield in CV31 sits around 5.8%, with student HMOs often achieving even higher returns.
What drives higher yields:
- Early listing in January
- Energy-efficient upgrades (EPC C or above)
- Appealing communal spaces for sharers
- Close management and clear compliance
Martin & Co Leamington Spa has helped dozens of local landlords achieve yields above 7% by refining their strategy and marketing effectively.
Quick EPC wins for landlords in Leamington Spa
If you’re preparing to list your property in January, these quick upgrades can help improve your EPC and tenant appeal fast:
- Draught-proofing doors and windows
- Smart heating controls like Hive or Nest
- LED lighting throughout
- Cylinder insulation jackets
- Energy-efficient appliances
We offer EPC assessment support and can connect you with trusted local contractors for fast turnarounds.
5 actions every landlord should take in January 2026
- Book an EPC review – check if your property is compliant or needs upgrading
- List your student property early – beat the February rush to secure the best tenants
- Review your tenancy agreements – prepare for Renters’ Rights changes
- Get a lettings valuation – find out what your property could be earning in 2026
- Work with a local expert – Martin & Co Leamington Spa can help you market, manage and maintain compliance
The opportunity is now: let’s make it count
With Warwick University student demand at its peak and major legislation changes on the horizon, January 2026 is a crucial month for landlords.
By acting now, you can:
- Protect your income and future-proof your investments
- Avoid costly compliance issues later in the year
- Attract higher quality tenants with energy-efficient homes
Whether you let students or professionals, the message is the same – the earlier you prepare, the better your results will be.
Speak to our local lettings experts at Martin & Co Leamington Spa to:
- Get a free rental valuation.
- Discuss an EPC upgrade plan
- Explore how to boost your yield in 2026
We’re here to help you maximise your return and navigate change with confidence.
Martin & Co Leamington Spa – Local expertise, national strength.
