Game-Changing Legislation That’s Reshaping the Private Rental Sector
The UK’s rental landscape is undergoing its biggest shift in decades—and whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, the Renters’ Reform Bill is something you can’t afford to ignore. It will come into effect in October 2025—and it’s set to transform the private rented sector for good.
What is Renters' Reform Bill?
Announced as part of a push for “a fairer private rented sector,” this bill is designed to offer greater security for tenants and clearer structure for landlords.
But here’s the twist: it’s not just about fairness—it’s about transparency, accountability, and consistency.
Key Changes Coming in October 2025
1. “No-Fault” Evictions Will Be Abolished
Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without giving a valid legal reason.
What it means:
– Section 21 notices will be removed from law
– All evictions must go through Section 8, with clearly defined grounds (e.g. rent arrears, property sale, breach of contract)
2. All Tenancies Will Be Periodic
Fixed-term tenancy agreements will be replaced with rolling (periodic) tenancies.
What it means:
– Tenants can leave with 2 months’ notice
– Landlords must provide a valid reason to end a tenancy
3. Stricter Rules on Rent Increases
Rent increases will be more controlled.
What it means:
– Rent can only be increased once per year
– Landlords must give 2 months’ notice
Tenants will have the right to challenge unfair increases
4. A New Property Portal for Landlords
A government-run portal will launch to track compliance and raise standards.
What it means:
– Landlords must register their properties
– Local councils will have access to data for enforcement
5. Mandatory Ombudsman Scheme for All Landlords
A single, mandatory ombudsman will be introduced to resolve disputes.
What it means:
– Tenants can raise complaints without going to court
– All private landlords (even those using agents) must register
– The ombudsman also aims to protect the tenants’ rights. It has the power to make landlords provide more information, issue an apology, or pay a compensation of up to £25,000.
6. Rights to Keep Pets
Tenants have the right to keep a pet in the property, and landlords must consider and cannot refuse without a valid reason.
7. Decent Homes Standard for Private Rental Sector (PRS)
It requires the rented properties to include:
- Decent noise insulation
- No health and safety hazards, including risks of fire, fall or Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Kitchen and bathroom facilities
- Proper heating, warm and dry environment.
- Clean, appropriate and usable facilities.
- What it means: Landlords who fail to comply to this standard can get a penalty up to £30,000 or a banning order. Tenants can also claim up to 24 months of rent back through rent repayment orders.
Need Help Navigating the Changes?
Our expert team is ready to assist landlords and tenants with personalised guidance, compliance checks, and tenancy contract assistance.
Tags: Renters Reform Bill, UK Rental Law, Tenant Rights