The Renters’ Rights Bill, a key part of the government’s housing reform agenda, aims to provide greater security, stability and fairness for renters, while also giving responsible landlords clearer rules and stronger grounds for managing their properties.
One of the most significant reforms is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, ending the practice of tenants being asked to leave with little notice and no explanation.
In its place will be a more transparent tenancy system that empowers tenants to challenge unfair practices without fear of losing their homes.
Another major change is the move to a single type of tenancy: periodic tenancies. This gives tenants more flexibility to end their tenancy when they need to, while ensuring they are not trapped in long-term contracts in properties that may not meet required standards. Landlords will still retain the right to regain possession of their property where there is a valid reason, such as wishing to sell or move in, but will need to follow fairer and more structured processes.
The bill also introduces new safeguards around rent increases, ensuring they can only occur once a year and must reflect the market rate.
Tenants will be able to challenge unfair increases through a reformed tribunal process, with added protection against backdating or arbitrary rises used as a form of indirect eviction.
Importantly, the bill takes aim at poor housing conditions. For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard will apply to the private rented sector, meaning landlords will be legally required to ensure their properties are safe, secure and up to standard. The introduction of ‘Awaab’s Law’ will also impose strict timeframes for addressing serious hazards, helping to protect tenants from unsafe living conditions.
To improve accountability, a new Private Rented Sector Database and Landlord Ombudsman will be introduced. Landlords will be required to register their properties and comply with basic standards, while tenants will gain access to impartial, binding dispute resolution without the need for lengthy court proceedings.
Other measures include protections against discrimination towards tenants with children or those receiving benefits, and a new right for tenants to request pets – with landlords only able to refuse on reasonable grounds.
In addition, the bill seeks to end rental bidding wars, making it illegal for landlords or agents to accept offers above the advertised rent. This is aimed at ensuring a fairer, more transparent rental market, especially in high-demand areas.
While many of these changes may seem tenant-focused, good landlords stand to benefit too. With clearer rules, better access to information, and stronger enforcement against rogue landlords, the overall playing field will be fairer and more consistent.
Importantly, all of these reforms will come into force at the same time, rather than being phased in so it’s important that you’re ready!
If you’ve got a question, get in touch.
