The Renters' Rights Bill is expected to bring the most significant changes to the private rented sector (PRS) in decades. For landlords, this is a defining moment: adapt early and future-proof your portfolio, or risk falling behind as enforcement tightens and tenant expectations rise.
But there’s no need to panic. While the reforms are wide-reaching, they’re designed to raise standards — not punish professional landlords. In fact, those who prepare now are likely to see longer tenancies, fewer disputes, and more stable returns.
This guide breaks down the key elements of the Bill and provides practical, no-nonsense steps to help you navigate what’s ahead.
The Bill aims to rebalance the landlord-tenant relationship by prioritising fairness, security, and accountability across the PRS. Here are the main proposed changes:
These measures aim to professionalise the sector and ensure safer, more secure homes for tenants — and stronger, more resilient businesses for landlords.
Section 21 currently allows landlords to serve notice without providing a reason. Once abolished, landlords will need to use Section 8, which requires valid grounds such as rent arrears, breach of contract, sale of property, or moving in a family member.
Implications:
Tip: Familiarise yourself with all Section 8 grounds and seek legal advice to ensure tenancy clauses align.
All tenancies will become periodic by default, removing the certainty of fixed terms. While this offers flexibility, it also means landlords must be more responsive.
Risks and Considerations:
Best Practice:
Landlords will be restricted to one rent increase per year, with two months' notice. Increases must be in line with market conditions and demonstrably fair.
What You Can Do:
All private landlords will be required to register on a national database, providing proof of compliance (e.g. gas safety, EPCs, deposit protection, EICRs).
Why This Matters:
Action Steps:
The Renters' Rights Bill introduces a mandatory ombudsman service to resolve tenant complaints without going to court.
Benefits for Landlords:
What to Do Now:
Pets: Landlords must not impose blanket bans and must fairly assess requests. Insurance to cover pet damage may be required.
Discrimination: Landlords can no longer refuse tenants based on them having children or receiving benefits.
Lifetime Deposits: Deposits will follow the tenant from property to property — reducing admin and improving tenant mobility.
No Bidding Wars: The advertised rent must be honoured, with no ‘best offers’ accepted above it.
The Bill extends Awaab’s Law to the PRS — requiring landlords to address health hazards like mould or damp within strict legal timeframes.
The Decent Homes Standard, long used in social housing, will also apply to PRS properties. Landlords will need to ensure:
Tip: Conduct a property audit now to assess where your property may fall short — and plan improvements proactively.
Although not part of the Bill, EPC reforms are in consultation. The government has signalled that PRS homes may be required to meet a higher EPC+ standard (targeting EPC C) between 2026–2028.
Prepare by:
To stay ahead of the changes and protect your portfolio, here’s your checklist:
“I won’t be able to evict tenants anymore.”
False. You’ll still be able to evict using Section 8 — but only with valid grounds and proper documentation.
“These changes will destroy landlord profits.”
Not necessarily. Good landlords who offer quality, compliant homes often attract longer-staying tenants and fewer costly disputes.
“I’ll wait until it’s all law before making changes.”
That’s risky. Many reforms will be phased in from late 2025 through 2027 — leaving little time to adapt once deadlines hit.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is not the end of the PRS — it’s a modernisation. A more transparent, fair, and professional system benefits tenants and landlords alike.
Landlords who adapt early, maintain high standards, and document everything will be in the strongest position to navigate this change — and stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
Think of your property as a professional business. Keep it compliant, tenant-ready, and future-proofed — and it will continue delivering strong returns for years to come.
Do you need to brush up on your compliance? Or maybe you are unsure about the new laws and legislations that could be coming into place? If so, Click here to explore our consultation options and connect with one of our property experts today to ensure that you get the right support!