The Government’s Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent on 27 October, bringing reforms for tenants and landlords.
Section 21 “no fault” evictions will be abolished. All new and existing fixed-term tenancies will move to periodic agreements, giving renters the right to remain until they choose to leave. Tenants will be able to end a tenancy with two months’ notice. Landlords’ interests will be protected through clearer, strengthened grounds for regaining possession.
Ministers will confirm the rollout timetable shortly. Measures due next spring include curbing bidding wars, limiting upfront payments so landlords cannot ask for more than one month’s rent, and stronger routes to challenge unfair rent increases. Renters will gain the right to request a pet, which landlords may refuse only for a good reason.
The Act will also tackle discrimination. Landlords and agents will be banned from rejecting applicants because they have children or receive benefits. Standards will rise with the Decent Homes Standard, Awaab’s Law applied to the private rented sector, and stricter local authority enforcement.
Ben Beadle, chief executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, called the reforms the most significant shakeup in almost 40 years and urged the Government to work with providers to ensure their implementation, especially for student housing.
Housing minister Steve Reed said the Act levels the playing field after a previous imbalance.
The changes may increase costs, landlords face higher taxes, and the chancellor is considering a possible levy.
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