The Labour Government has made quite an impact since its 2024 instatement, making significant adjustments to English legislation, the benefit of these changes being the focus of wider debate.
Upon its instatement, the Government pledged to implement significant reforms in the rental market of England, with a particular emphasis on the abolition of no-fault evictions.
Consequent to this commitment, the Bill was presented to the House of Commons on 11 September for its First Reading and was subsequently approved on 15 January. The next day, the Renters’ Rights Bill was moved to the House of Lords for the First Reading, with the Second Reading taking place on February 4th.
Members of the House of Lords resumed their detailed examination of the Renters’ Rights Bill in committee stage on the 28th April. The six days of the committee stage have been scheduled for April 22nd, 24th, and 28th, followed by additional committee days on May 6th, 12th, and 14th. This schedule is subject to change.
On day three of the committee stage, members will have the opportunity to propose amendments to the bill, with a focus on subjects such as eviction notice periods, providers of social housing, and the appeals process.
If the Renters’ Rights Bill passes, it will then move on to the report stage.
Though it was initially proposed to be implemented by Summer 2025, it is far more likely to be implemented in October.
At Brown Turner Ross, we aim to remain informed throughout the process to ensure that our clients and followers may do the same. In this blog, we will outline the Renters’ Rights Bill and what its introduction means for landlords and tenants.
What is the Renters’ Rights Bill 2025?
The Bill seeks to reform the rental market by eliminating no-fault evictions, moving towards periodic tenancies, and implementing additional tenant protections.
The Renters’ Rights Bill will also set a new Decent Home Standard for the private rented sector, ensuring that all properties meet specified quality standards.
Has the Renters’ Rights Bill Been Passed?
Although currently in the House of Lords, the legislation is anticipated to be legally enforceable by the autumn of this year. The government has pledged to provide the sector with adequate notice regarding the implementation of the system to ensure a seamless transition.
What Does Section 8 of the Renters’ Rights Bill Mean?
Section 8 allows landlords to reclaim their properties. This replaces the existing Section 21 eviction process and mandates landlords to present legitimate reasons for eviction, like rent arrears or tenancy breaches.
Commencement of the Bill
Some might think that the bill only affects future renters; however, it will also apply to all existing tenancy agreements. The bill’s implementation is slated to begin between October and December of this year.
Key Changes and Reforms
It is essential to understand the key changes and reforms the Renters’ Rights Bill has made to current and future tenancy agreements. It is important that landlords not only understand the rules behind current tenancy agreements but also understand upcoming changes.
End of Section 21 Evictions
One of the biggest reforms that the Renters’ Rights Bill is set to make is the abolition of no-fault evictions under Section 21. This means landlords will no longer be able to serve no-fault notices to tenants. This adjustment provides renters with the reassurance of not having to fear eviction without prior notice.
Rent Control Measures
As commercial property solicitors, we are well aware of disputes concerning rent that can occur between landlords and tenants, so these new reforms are set to be advantageous for anyone who currently rents.
This legislation seeks to enhance tenant protections from excessive rent increases by capping hikes to once annually and ensuring they align with the market rates.
This does not mean that the Renters’ Rights Bill property laws will impose caps, but landlords will be unable to hike the price unreasonably.
Improved Property Standards
The bill aims to improve property standards by enforcing the ‘Decent Home Standard’, which outlines that all properties must meet basic living conditions for the safety of tenants. The standard obliges landlords to address hazards within their property, such as dampness and mold, or they could be subject to consequences.
This initiative aims to offer tenants legal safeguards while ensuring the well-being of those in private rentals.
Stronger Tenant Protection
Through all of the reforms discussed in this guide, it is clear that the main goal of these changes and amendments is to strengthen tenant protection.
By providing tenancy security, improving living standards, and replacing the traditional assured shorthold tenancy with a single system of periodic tenancies, tenants do not need to worry about being unexpectedly put into difficult financial situations or even homelessness in worst-case scenarios.
Changes to Landlord Responsibilities
The introduction of the Renters’ Rights Bill will substantially change landlords’ current responsibilities. Landlords will have to take a more hands-on approach to their properties and take responsibility for issues within them, rectifying them as soon as possible.
Implications For Landlords
With the introduction of any bill, there are bound to be people affected, and the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Bill means landlords will have to make serious changes to their operations.
Because Section 21 was removed, the tenant removal process underwent many changes. Landlords will now be required to provide a valid legal reason for eviction, which could make it more challenging for them to regain possession of their property.
This bill sees a shift towards more professional landlord practices, which could, in return, push out small-scale landlords that struggle to comply with new terms.
The new legislation also means landlords will experience reduced flexibility in the tenancy agreements they form, as there will be fewer opportunities to adjust their rental terms.
Because of rent control measures, landlords will be restricted in how much they can increase their rent. This, along with additional licensing requirements and property maintenance obligations, could result in increased costs.
Implications For Tenants
This bill can certainly be interpreted as a win for tenants, providing them greater security, improved living standards and stronger protection against unfair practices.
The introduction of the Renters’ Rights Bill also means more transparency in tenancy agreements, which will benefit both parties as it could reduce tenant and landlord disputes.
Though the bill’s introduction offers many benefits for tenants, it may also have some downsides. With stricter rules in place, the volume of available rental properties may decrease, leading to higher demand and more competition between renters.
Know Where You Stand With Brown Turner Ross
Through this blog, we have hoped to clarify the latest legislation affecting tenants and landlords. If you are struggling to navigate or fully understand the new bill, we would strongly recommend seeking legal advice to ensure that you know exactly where you stand.
At Brown Turner Ross, our extensive experience in property law enables us to assist you. Reach out today, and our team of solicitors will provide you with essential information regarding your current tenancy or any future tenancies.