What’s Changing in the Rental Market? The Biggest Reform for over 40 years- The Renters Rights Bill

Written By Mandeep mander

The government’s new Renters’ Rights Bill, introduced in September 2024 and expected to become law in 2025, is set to reshape the private rental sector in England. This post outlines some of the major points of the Bill and what they could mean for you as a landlord.

Here’s a summary of some of what is in the pipeline:

  • End of Section 21 (‘no-fault’) evictions

    Landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without giving a reason. This shifts all repossession activity to Section 8 grounds.

  • Expanded Section 8 grounds for possession
    New and updated grounds will make it easier to recover possession for legitimate reasons (e.g. wanting to sell or move in), but certain safeguards apply—for example, no eviction for sale/move-in within the first 12 months, and no re-letting for 12 months after eviction on those grounds.

  • All tenancies will become periodic
    Fixed-term contracts will be replaced with rolling (periodic) tenancies. Tenants can leave with two months’ notice, but landlords will need valid grounds to end a tenancy.

  • Limitation on upfront rent payments

The bill restricts landlords from requesting more than one month's rent in advance.

  • Stricter rules around discrimination
    It will be unlawful to refuse tenants on the basis that they receive benefits or have children.

  • Banning rent bidding
    Asking for or accepting offers above the advertised rent will no longer be permitted.

  • New Decent Homes Standard (DHS)
    A minimum quality standard will now apply to privately rented homes, similar to what’s currently expected in the social housing sector.

  • Extension of Awaab’s Law
    Landlords will be required to fix health hazards such as mould or damp within a specific time frame.

  • Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman
    A mandatory ombudsman will be introduced to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants outside of court.

  • A national landlord/property register
    All landlords will be required to register themselves and their properties on a central database.

As landlords ourselves, we understand that parts of this Bill may feel like a significant shift.

The Renters' Rights Bill is progressing quickly and is expected to become law before summer. Staying compliant is essential to avoid potential fines and complications.

We can help ensure you are up to date with all legal requirements and best positioned for the upcoming changes.

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Mandeep mander