The Renters' Reform Bill is a part of the government’s commitment to improving the private rented sector in England.
1. End of Section 21 (“No Fault”) Evictions – Encouraging Stability
- What’s Changing: Section 21 evictions will be abolished.
- You Can Still Regain Possession: Strengthened Section 8 grounds ensure landlords can recover properties for legitimate reasons (e.g., selling the property, repeated rent arrears, occupation by family or antisocial behaviour).
2. Rent Increases – Transparency for All
- What’s Changing: Rent increases will be limited to once per year with two months’ notice and tenants can challenge increases via the First-tier Tribunal.
- Landlord Benefit: Helps build trust and predictability in your relationship with tenants. Clear notice periods aid in planning rental income.
3. Simplified Tenancy System – One Single ‘Periodic Tenancy’
- What’s Changing: Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) and fixed-term tenancies will be replaced by periodic tenancies.
4. Clear Grounds for Possession
- What’s Changing: The grounds for eviction under Section 8 are being revised and made more robust.
- Landlord Benefit: New, clearer grounds (such as repeated arrears or intent to sell) provide confidence and clarity, reducing legal ambiguity. A tenant has to be in arrears for 3 months before notice can be served. However a Rent Guarantee policy is available at 3% of the rent which also includes legal cover. Do ask us for full details.
5. Property Portal – Professionalism Made Easy
- What’s Changing: A new digital property portal will be introduced for landlords to register and manage compliance.
- Landlord Benefit: Streamlines legal responsibilities, helps demonstrate compliance and professionalism—especially helpful when engaging new tenants or responding to complaints.
6. Privately Rented Ombudsman – Independent Dispute Resolution
- What’s Changing: A single ombudsman service will be made available to all landlords.
- Landlord Benefit: Provides a free, impartial way to resolve disputes—potentially avoiding costly legal battles or tribunals.
7. Pets in Rental Properties – A Fair Framework
- What’s Changing: Tenants can request to keep pets, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse.
- Landlord Benefit: You can require pet insurance or request conditions to protect your property—providing peace of mind while expanding your potential tenant base.
The Bottom Line for Landlords
The Renters’ Reform Bill is not about disadvantaging landlords—it’s about raising standards and building trust across the sector. For proactive and responsible landlords, this bill:
- Reduces risk through clear rules and dispute resolution options
- Supports long-term tenancies and stable income
Want to Prepare?
Here’s what you can do now:
- Start reviewing your tenancy agreements
- Familiarize yourself with the Section 8 grounds
- Keep records up to date for the new property portal
