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What is the Renters’ Rights Bill and how will it affect landlords?

The Renters Rights’ Bill, scheduled to be read in the House of Lords on 4 February, will bring several changes landlords need to be aware of.

In this latest article, our managing Director, Carl Jones, explores what this Bill may mean for landlords.

What are the main points in the Renters’ Rights Bill?

The Renters’ Rights Bill aims to transform the private rental sector by introducing greater security and stability for renters.

“Landlords will need to understand the prospective changes to ensure they remain compliant,” said Carl Jones.

The Bill introduces several important changes that landlords should prepare for, including:

Abolition of section 21 evictions

The bill looks to deliver security by abolishing “no-fault” evictions.

Landlords will be required to give a valid reason to evict tenants, which will give renters much more security.

Landlords must be prepared for the stricter rules, and it would be good practice to seek guidance on what constitutes a valid reason for eviction.

Protections against backdoor evictions

Tenants will be able to appeal excessive above-market rents which are designed to force them out.

Landlords can still increase rent in line with market trends, and an independent tribunal will make a judgement on this if it is necessary.

New private rental sector database

This will require landlords to register their properties and provide detailed information, such as contact details and records of enforcement actions or eviction notices.

This addresses the need for greater transparency and accountability in the rental market.

Right to request pets

Tenants will now have the right to request permission to keep pets.

Reasonable grounds must be given if the landlord refuses the request.

Amendments to the Renters’ Rights Bill

As the Bill passed through the Commons, there were several notable changes made:

Limits on rent in advance – Landlords are restricted to requesting only one month’s rent upfront, in addition to a security deposit. Although this measure helps prevent financial obstacles for tenants, it might limit flexibility for those who use upfront payments to show affordability.
Student tenancy challenges – Eviction Ground 4A will only apply to student houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) if tenancy agreements are signed less than six months before the start of the tenancy. This could affect the availability of student housing, particularly in university towns where advance bookings are typical.
Protection for guarantors – If the tenant passes away, guarantors can no longer be held liable for payments, which takes positive steps to safeguard bereaved families, relieving financial strain.
Landlord–funded Ombudsman service – Aiming to provide a fair and independent route for dispute resolution between landlords and tenants, the new Ombudsman service will be funded by landlord fees.

“The Renters’ Rights Bill will likely receive royal assent this year, so landlords must be well-informed about the changes to remain compliant,” added Carl.

“Reviewing tenancy agreements, organising the registration system, and adjusting policies for pet requests and eviction grounds will be crucial.”

If you are a landlord, it is crucial to seek advice about any of the changes that the Bill will introduce and keep up to date with any further amendments that are made. For the latest guidance, please speak to our team.

Amanda Hyam

Head of Dispute Resolution and Employment

I have specialised in Dispute Resolution, Civil Litigation and Employment law for more than 15 years. I understand how daunting the prospect of litigation can be and because of this I am always available to discuss concerns.