October 24, 2025
The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to bring the biggest shake-up to England’s rental market in years. It aims to make renting fairer, safer, and more secure for tenants, while holding landlords to higher standards.
Here’s what’s being proposed, what it means in practice, and how it could affect you.
What’s Proposed
1. End of “no-fault” evictions
Section 21 evictions will be scrapped. Landlords will need a valid reason, such as selling the property or tenants breaking the terms of their agreement.
2. All tenancies to become periodic
Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies will be replaced by rolling, open-ended contracts. Tenants can leave with proper notice, and landlords will need to follow stricter procedures to regain possession.
3. Limits on rent increases
Landlords can only raise rent once a year, with proper notice. Tenants will be able to challenge increases through a tribunal if they believe the rise is unfair.
4. Ban on rental bidding and large upfront payments
Landlords and agents won’t be able to ask tenants to outbid others, and advance rent payments will be capped at one month.
5. The right to have a pet
Tenants will be able to request pets, and landlords must have a valid reason to refuse.
6. New Property Ombudsman and Landlord Register
Every landlord will need to join a new redress scheme, giving tenants a simpler way to resolve complaints. Properties will also need to be registered on a national database.
7. A new Decent Homes Standard for rented properties
Private rentals will have to meet minimum quality and safety standards, similar to those required in social housing.
What This Means in Practice
For tenants:
- More protection from sudden eviction
- Greater flexibility to move when needed
- Stronger rights to challenge rent rises and poor housing conditions
For landlords and agents:
- Stricter regulations and more paperwork
- Fewer options for quick evictions
- Need to register, meet housing standards, and handle pet requests fairly
For the market overall:
The reforms aim to create stability, but some landlords may choose to sell or leave the sector, potentially affecting supply and rental prices in the short term.
Why It Matters
The Renters’ Rights Bill is designed to make renting more stable and transparent. For tenants, it’s about security and fairness. For landlords, it’s about professionalism and accountability.
If you rent, start checking your tenancy terms and know your rights. If you’re a landlord, make sure your agreements, maintenance, and processes are up to standard before these changes come into effect.