The Renters’ Rights Bill is a bill in the UK that aims to improve the security and stability of tenants.
The bill was originally introduced to the House of Commons in September 2024
The second reading in The House of Lords was on the 04th February 2025, although yet to be passed please find to follow quick reference to some of the things that will be changing
Fixed Term Tenancies will change to Periodic
All fixed term tenancies will disappear and be replaced with a new type of tenancy
If you are currently in a fixed term tenancy with your tenants this will immediately change to a periodic (rolling) where tenants will be bound to provide two months’ notice to vacate at any point.
Although the above is to be finalised we consider this part not to change, we in turn will have a legal responsibility to issue this is writing to all tenants
Landlords will not be able to evict tenants without good reason
Section 21’s will be abolished and landlord will only be able to evict tenants by serving a Section 8 notice which has commonly been used to date for evictions relating to rent arrears and breach of tenancy.
Section 8 notices will have additional grounds added which will have their own notice periods such as if a landlord wants to sell the property or move back in a notice period of four months would be required
Tenants will be protected from certain evictions for the first 12 months of the tenancy unless a clear breach such as Rent arrears or similar. The period of time for seeking possession for rent arrears is likely to change from the tenant being currently two months to three months
Other things to be aware of..
You will not be able refuse a Pet in the property (without good reason) moving forward, but can request the tenants obtain an insurance. If the head lease disallows pets then this would be reason to not accept pets
“Decent Homes Standard” will be introduced which will set out minimum health & safety requirements for all privately rented property as per “Awaab’s Law”
Landlords will be subject to mandatory registration & membership of an ombudsman of which Property Moves are
The bill will prohibit blanket bans on renting to families with children or those claiming benefits. All prospective tenants must still meet standard referencing criteria to secure a tenancy.
Landlords can continue to assess tenants based on their ability to meet rent and other requirements.
The bill bans bidding wars and limits rent in advance payments to one month. Properties must be marketed at a fixed rent, and tenants cannot be asked to bid above the listed price
Our View . . .
We are still unsure when the Renters Reform Bill will become law but as your agent we will keep you informed about these ongoing changes, as they will shape tenancy agreements, eviction processes, rent increases and more.
As we know more we will keep you updated and then ensure you’re fully compliant once the Bill becomes law
You can see the full Government overview of measures by visiting www.ukgov.co.uk