EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE RENTERS RIGHTS BILL 2025

The Renters' Rights bill is expected to come into act after Easter 2025, but what do the potential changes look like and what impact could they have on both landlords and tenants?

The most significant reform the private rented sector has seen since the Housing Act 1988, introduced to Parliament in September 2024, let's go through the potential changes.

1. Abolition of Section 21 'NO FAULT' Evictions - Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without cause. Section 8 evictions will be allowed, requiring grounds and breach of contracts to enable an eviction, with more complex legal procedures. Resulting in longer notice periods and increased costs.

   
   

2. Advance Rent Limits - Only one months rent in advance can be requested.

3. End of Fixed-Term Tenancies - All tenancies are set to be periodic, granting tenants greater flexibility to leave with two months’ notice. Landlords will be required to give at least four months' notice for evictions related to rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or personal reasons.

   
   

4. Pets in Rented Homes - tenants will have the right to keep pets, and landlords can only refuse for valid reasons, landlords can also require pet insurance.

   
   

5. Energy Performance Requirements -  Properties must meet a minimum EPC rating of "C" before being marketed from 2025. Existing tenancies must comply by 2028, with fines for non-compliance.

   
   

6. Anti-Discrimination Measures - Landlords and agents must not discriminate against tenants claiming benefits or those with children. This will ensure equal housing access for all applicants.

   
   

7. New ‘Decent Homes Standard’ - The private rented sector will be held to higher safety and condition standards. Failure to comply will result in larger fines for landlords.

   
   

8. Limit rent increases - Section 13 notices will be the only way for landlords to raise the rent, which can only be served once per year.

   
   

9. Ban bidding wars - Landlords and agents cannot accept offers above the advertised price

   
   

10. New and amended Section 8 grounds for possession - changes will be made for grounds of possession and introducing new ones.

    
    
    
    

    As these changes take effect, it’s important to consider how they may impact your property. If you’re looking for a more hands-off, hassle-free alternative, we offer management solutions that may better align with your goals and minimise risk.  We can look after all aspects of the new and previous legislation to ensure you remain compliant in all areas.