Guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill 2025

26/02/2025

The Renters’ Rights Bill, expected to become law in the summer of 2025, introduces major changes for landlords across England. Understanding these reforms will help you stay compliant and manage your rental properties effectively. At Selmans Lettings Ltd, we’re committed to keeping landlords informed.This guide outlines the key changes and what you should do to prepare. 


Key Changes Under the Renters’ Rights Bill  


1. Abolition of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions

 

 Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without providing a valid legal reason. Instead, all evictions must follow Section 8 grounds, such as:

  • Significant rent arrears

  • Anti-social behaviour

  • Breach of tenancy agreement

This change reinforces tenant security, meaning landlords must ensure all tenancy agreements and eviction processes align with the new rules.

 
2. Introduction of Periodic Tenancies 

  • The bill removes fixed-term tenancies, meaning all rental agreements will automatically become periodic (rolling).

  • Tenants can leave with two months’ notice.

  • Fixed-term renewals will no longer be needed.

This gives tenants more flexibility but also means landlords must adapt to a rental landscape without fixed-term security.  


3. Regulation of Rent Increases To prevent sudden or unfair rent hikes:

  • Rent increases can only occur once per year via a Section 13 notice.

  • Tenants will have the right to challenge excessive increases at a tribunal.

Landlords should ensure all rent adjustments are fair, well-documented, and justifiable.  


4. Decent Homes Standard for the Private Rental Sector  

For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard (previously applied to social housing) will be enforced in private rentals. This means properties must:

  • Meet basic safety and repair standards.

  • Be free from serious hazards such as damp and mould.

  • Comply with minimum energy efficiency requirements.


5. Stronger Tenant Protections

  • Tenants can challenge unfair above-market rents.

  • Awaab’s Law: Landlords must urgently address damp and mould issues to avoid penalties.


6. New Private Rented Sector Database

All landlords must register on a national database to confirm compliance with legal and safety obligations. This aims to increase transparency and accountability in the rental sector.  


7. Introduction of a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman 

A new independent ombudsman will be established to:

  • Handle tenant complaints fairly and efficiently.

  • Provide mediation to resolve disputes without court action.


How Landlords Can Prepare 


1. Review Existing Tenancy Agreements 

Ensure your tenancy agreements are ready for the transition to periodic tenancies. Consider how the removal of fixed terms may affect your property management strategy. 


2. Understand the New Grounds for Eviction 

Familiarise yourself with updated Section 8 grounds to ensure legal compliance when regaining possession of your property.  

 

3. Plan for Rent Adjustments Carefully

  • Use the formal Section 13 process for rent increases.

  • Keep records to justify rent adjustments and avoid informal verbal agreements.


4. Ensure Your Property Meets Compliance Standards

  • Conduct inspections to meet Decent Homes Standards.

  • Address any safety, repair, or energy efficiency issues before the law takes effect. 


5. Prepare for the Landlord Database Registration

Gather all necessary documentation, including:

  • Gas safety certificates

  • Electrical safety reports

  • Energy performance certificates (EPCs)


6. Stay Informed & Seek Expert Advice Government guidelines will continue to evolve.

Stay updated through:

  • Industry news and landlord associations.

  • Professional legal or letting agency advice.


Need Help? Selmans Lettings Ltd is Here for you. 
The Renters’ Rights Bill will reshape the private rental sector, and early preparation is key to staying compliant while maintaining a profitable and well-managed portfolio. We help landlords navigate legislative changes with confidence. Contact us today for personalised guidance and expert property management support

 

Please note that the Renters Rights Bill is still progressing through parliament so the information above may be subject to change.   


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