What the Renters’ Rights Bill Means for Landlords and Tenants
The Renters’ Rights Bill is a major piece of housing legislation set to reshape the private rented sector. It aims to give tenants stronger protections while providing landlords with clearer expectations and processes.
What the Renters’ Rights Bill Means for Landlords and Tenants
The Renters’ Rights Bill is one of the most significant pieces of housing legislation in recent years. Its aim is to rebalance the private rented sector by giving tenants stronger protections while setting out clearer expectations and processes for landlords.
End of Section 21 “No Fault” Evictions
One of the headline changes is the proposed end of Section 21 “no fault” evictions. Instead, landlords will need to rely on Section 8 grounds, such as rent arrears, property sale or anti-social behaviour, to regain possession.
New mandatory and discretionary grounds are being introduced to make the process fairer and more transparent for everyone.
For tenants, this means greater security; for landlords, it means a more structured legal framework with clear routes to possession.
Shift to Periodic Tenancies
Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will be replaced with rolling periodic tenancies. Tenancies will no longer automatically end after a set period, but tenants will be able to give two months’ notice at any time.
For landlords, the ability to end tenancies will remain through Section 8 grounds. This creates more flexibility for tenants while helping landlords plan with clearer expectations.
Strengthened Tenant Protections
The Bill also introduces measures to make tenancies clearer and more consistent:
- Standardised written tenancy agreements
- Rent increases limited to once per year, with the right to challenge unreasonable rises
- More transparent notice periods
These changes aim to build trust and reduce uncertainty on both sides of the rental agreement.
Pet Requests
Tenants will find it easier to request permission to keep pets.
Landlords can’t unreasonably refuse a request and must give clear written reasons if they do. Tenants may be required to provide pet insurance to cover any potential damage.
This creates a more transparent process while still giving landlords practical safeguards.
National Landlord Register
The Bill also proposes a new national landlord register. All landlords will need to register their properties, giving tenants more confidence and local authorities more power to enforce standards.
For most professional landlords and agents, this will formalise standards they’re already meeting.
Ombudsman Scheme
A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will give tenants an easier way to raise complaints without going to court.
Landlords will need to be members of the scheme, but it’s expected to speed up resolution times and reduce lengthy legal dispute, benefiting both landlords and tenants.
What Happens Next?
The Bill is still making its way through Parliament and is subject to change. However, the Government has confirmed that implementation will be phased in, with a transition period for existing tenancies.
This isn’t about immediate upheaval — but about being prepared. Reviewing tenancy agreements, processes, and compliance steps now will help make the transition smooth.
Our View
There’s a lot of commentary around this legislation, and some of it is understandably alarmist. In reality, the impact will vary from landlord to landlord, depending on individual circumstances.
At Oakley Property, our lettings team is taking a measured and practical approach. We’re here to advise landlords on what these changes might mean for them and to help put the right plans in place.
If you have concerns about how the Bill could affect your properties or strategy, get in touch with our team for tailored guidance.
Our award-winning lettings team can be contacted via lettings@oakleyproperty.com or by calling 01273688884.