Renter’s Rights Bill Update

The Renters Rights Bill is nearing Royal Assent – probably in September, with the House of Lords completing its final stages. Implementation is likely to be early 2026 and not October as has been indicated throughout the year. This means we have a little more time to prepare, but rest assured we have the basics ready and just await to the finer points to be confirmed.

Key Changes Introduced by the Bill

End of Section 21 Evictions: Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid, legally defined reason. There will be 2 reasons: Either if a landlord wants to sell the property, or if the landlord or family member wants to move into the property and live there.

Periodic Tenancies: Fixed-term tenancies will be replaced by periodic tenancies, allowing tenants to end their tenancy with two months’ notice. It is yet to be confirmed how much notice a landlord can give if they want to sell, but probably 4 months.

Strengthened Section 8 grounds for possession: Landlords will still be able to evict tenants for specific legal reasons, such as rent arrears or anti-social behaviour, with updated grounds and notice periods.

Rent increase regulations: Landlords can only increase rent once per year using a Section 13 notice, capped at market value, and tenants can challenge increases they deem excessive through the First-tier Tribunal.

Discrimination:  It will be illegal for landlords and agents to discriminate against tenants based on factors like benefits or children.

Bidding Wars:  The bill aims to prevent bidding wars by prohibiting offers above the listed price. Its an unwanted tactic by some agents who list a property at a below market value to encourage a bidding war.

Decent Homes Standard:  Private rented properties will need to meet a minimum standard of quality and safety, including addressing issues like damp and mould within specified timeframes. This includes applying Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector.

Landlord Ombudsman: A new mandatory ombudsman service will offer free and impartial dispute resolution between landlords and tenants. 

Private Rented Sector Database: A database will be created where landlords must register their properties and themselves, providing better information for tenants and helping local councils with enforcement

Awaab’s Law: The bill will extend Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector, requiring landlords to address hazards like damp and mould

There is nothing to worry about

We have been busy behind the scenes all year preparing. In reality, the biggest change is abolishing fixed term tenancies. However, our research indicates that tenants are equally as unhappy with this as our landlords. With careful management, we don’t foresee any changes to the average length of our tenancies which is currently at 18 months.

Please do get in touch in you have any questions or concerns.