The Renters’ Rights Bill legislation has now passed through Parliament, bringing some of the biggest changes to England’s private rented sector in years. Although it’s still waiting for Royal Assent, here’s what landlords and tenants can expect once it becomes law.
Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, these reforms aim to make renting fairer, clearer, and more transparent.
1️⃣ ASTs (Assured Shorthold Tenancy) become periodic. All tenancies will now automatically roll on indefinitely until either the tenant gives notice or the landlord ends the tenancy for a specific reason. This offers more stability for tenants and clarity for landlords.
2️⃣ New tenancy structure. Landlords must provide tenants with a written statement of terms at the start. Existing tenants will receive a government-issued note summarising changes, but won’t need new contracts. Rent cannot be taken before the agreement is signed, though deposits are allowed.
3️⃣ Clearer grounds for ending a tenancy. Section 21 “no-fault” evictions are abolished. Landlords can only end tenancies by serving a Section 8 notice for valid reasons. Tenants can end a tenancy anytime with two months’ notice.
4️⃣ Rent increases. Rent can only rise once a year, with at least two months’ notice. Tenants can challenge unfair increases through the First Tier Tribunal.
5️⃣ Restrictions on rent bidding. Asking rent must be published, and offers over this amount cannot be accepted, making the process fairer.
6️⃣ Pets. Tenants can request to keep pets, and landlords must respond within 28 days. Unreasonable refusals are not allowed.
7️⃣ Anti-discrimination. Landlords cannot refuse tenants because they have children or receive benefits, although affordability checks are still permitted.
8️⃣ Property standards. Homes must meet the Decent Homes Standard and be free from serious hazards. Issues like damp and mould must be addressed promptly.
9️⃣ Landlord registration and redress. All landlords must register with the Private Rented Sector Database and join the Landlord Ombudsman for dispute resolution.
🔟 Local authority powers. Councils can issue fines of up to £40,000 for serious or repeated breaches. Tenants can also apply for rent repayment orders if landlords fail to comply.
These changes give tenants more protection and transparency while providing landlords with clearer rules and guidance.
At Sarah Kenny Residential Lettings, we’re here to guide both landlords and tenants through these reforms.
If you have any questions, give us a call on 0117 946 7171, email lettings@sarahkenny.co.uk, or drop into our Clifton Village office at 30 Regent Street.