The Renters’ Rights Bill officially became law on 27 October 2025, receiving Royal Assent and now known as the Renters’ Rights Act. While the Act has passed, it is not yet in force—meaning current tenancy rules remain unchanged for now. The Government is expected to announce a phased implementation timeline soon.

Key Reforms Under the Renters’ Rights Act

According to the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), the Act will introduce major changes to the private rental sector, including:

• A new standard tenancy agreement for private renters
• A Decent Homes Standard and updated hazard response rules
• Stricter regulations on advertising and letting practices
• Limits on rent paid in advance
• Abolition of Section 21 notices for possession
• Revised Section 8 grounds for possession
• New rules for rent increases
• A mandatory private rented sector database and Ombudsman
• Civil penalties and offences for non-compliant landlords

FOR LANDLORDS & PROPERTY MANAGERS: What’s Changing and Why It Matters

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces several reforms that directly impact how property managers operate. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Periodic Tenancies Replace Fixed-Term Contracts

All tenancies will shift to rolling contracts. This means tenants can give two months’ notice at any time, and property managers must adapt to more fluid occupancy patterns.

What it means for you:

• Greater need for proactive communication and planning
• Flexibility in marketing and turnover strategies
• Updated tenancy agreements required

2. Section 21 Evictions Abolished

“No fault” evictions are being phased out. Property managers must now rely on Section 8 grounds, which require specific reasons and evidence.

What it means for you:

• Stronger documentation and compliance practices
• Clear communication with tenants about expectations
• Registration on the new landlord database to access certain grounds

3. Rent Increase Rules Tighten

Rent can only be increased once per year with two months’ notice via a Section 13 notice. Tenants can challenge increases they believe are unfair.

What it means for you:

• Transparent pricing strategies
• Justification for rent adjustments
• Awareness of market rates and tenant rights

4. Pet Requests Must Be Considered

Tenants now have the right to request pets, and refusals must be based on reasonable grounds. Landlords can require pet insurance.

What it means for you:

• Clear pet policies and insurance requirements
• Flexibility in accommodating tenant preferences
• Potential for broader tenant appeal

FOR RENTERS: Your Rights and What to Expect

The Renters’ Rights Act is designed to empower tenants with more flexibility, protection, and transparency. Here’s what renters should know:

1. Rolling Tenancies = More Freedom

You’re no longer tied to fixed-term contracts. You can give two months’ notice at any time, making it easier to move when life changes.

What it means for you:

• Greater control over your living situation
• Easier transitions between homes
• Less pressure to commit long-term

2. No More “No Fault” Evictions

Landlords must now provide valid reasons to end a tenancy. This protects you from sudden, unexplained evictions.

What it means for you:

• More housing stability
• Legal protection against unfair removal
• Clearer communication from your landlord

3. Rent Increases Must Be Fair

Rent can only go up once a year, and you’ll get two months’ notice. You can challenge increases through a tribunal if needed.

What it means for you:

• Predictable budgeting
• Time to prepare for changes
• A voice in pricing decisions

4. Pet-Friendly Policies

You can request to keep a pet, and landlords must consider it seriously. They can ask for pet insurance, but can’t refuse without reason.

What it means for you:

• More inclusive housing options
• Opportunity to live with your furry companion
• Clear process for making requests

WHAT BOTH SIDES SHOULD DO NOW

For Property Managers:

• Review tenancy agreements and update them to reflect new rules
• Register on the landlord database
• Train staff and agents on compliance and communication
• Audit advertising practices to remove discriminatory language

For Renters:

• Understand your rights under the new law
• Keep records of communications and notices
• Ask questions and seek clarity when needed
• Use official channels to challenge unfair practices

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Renters’ Rights Act is a major step toward a more balanced rental market. These changes aim to improve transparency, tenant protections, and housing standards across England’s rental market, aiming to make renting fairer, safer, and more transparent.

For property managers, it’s a chance to build trust and professionalism. For renters, it’s a long-awaited boost in security and autonomy. By understanding both perspectives, we expect a rental experience that works better for everyone.

Author: Peter Kidd, Director Weir Bank Group

• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-renters-rights-bill/guide-to-the-renters-rights-bill
• https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/contact-or-visit-us/press-office/press-releases/bill-one-step-closer-to-protecting-renters-rights-but-key-components-missing
• https://www.nrla.org.uk/resources/renters-rights