The Renters’ Rights Bill – What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know About Key Changes.
The Renters’ Rights Bill marks a major turning point for landlords in England, with sweeping reforms on the private rental sector.
One of the most notable and well-known changes is the end of fixed-term tenancies, replaced with open-ended periodic agreements.
Here are some of the things that landlords need to keep in mind:
1. End of Fixed-Term Tenancies
Under the new bill, ALL tenancies will become periodic by default, meaning they will roll on a monthly basis with no set end date. This includes any AST’s that have already been granted. This change is designed to give renters greater flexibility and security, allowing them to end their tenancy with two months’ notice at any time. For landlords, regaining possession is not as easy and now requires specific grounds, such as the need to sell or move into the property; but landlords need to keep in mind that this is only possible after the 1st 12 months of the tenancy.
2. Abolition of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions
The Bill abolishes Section 21 evictions, which previously allowed landlords to remove tenants without giving a reason. From now on, landlords must provide legitimate, legally defined grounds to evict. Generally landlords will now rely on Section 8 notices, which have been amended. There have been some new grounds added.
3. Other Key Reforms:
- Rent Increase Restrictions: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and tenants have the right to challenge rises at a tribunal.
- PRS Ombudsman Scheme: All landlords must join a new redress scheme, offering tenants an accessible alternative to court for complaints.
- Cap on Advance Rent: Landlords may request no more than one month’s rent upfront (plus deposit), easing financial pressure on tenants.
- Right to Request Pets: Tenants can now request to keep pets, and landlords must not unreasonably refuse, although pet insurance may be required.
Legal Considerations
For landlords, these changes require immediate legal review of tenancy agreements and procedures. Existing fixed-term contracts will transition to periodic ones after expiry, and failure to comply with the new regulations could result in penalties.
At Barwells we have been helping landlords and letting agents navigate the law for many years. For tailored legal advice or to update your tenancy agreements, contact our property law team today.
By Lauren Chambers – Practice Director, Director, Head of Litigation
