Renting in England is changing, and fast.
Labour’s Renters’ Rights Bill, which replaced the previous Conservative Renters Reform Bill, was introduced to Parliament on 11 September 2024. After completing its third reading in the House of Commons in January 2025, with Government amendments accepted, it is now progressing through the House of Lords.
So, what does this mean for you?
Whether you’re renting, considering buying, or managing a rental property, here’s what you need to know about how this new legislation will reshape the private rental sector.
Why Was the Bill Introduced?
The Renters’ Rights Bill is a response to years of imbalance in the rental market, from sudden evictions and unchecked rent increases to poor property standards and lack of accountability.
With more than 11 million private renters in England, the Bill aims to:
- Create more stable and secure tenancies
- Crack down on poor-quality landlords
- Make renting fairer, clearer, and more professional
It’s the biggest shift in rental law for a generation, and one that has direct consequences for landlords and tenants alike.
What Are the Key Changes in the Renters’ Rights Bill?
- No More ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
The Bill abolishes Section 21, which previously allowed landlords to evict tenants without needing to provide a reason.
Now:
- Evictions must be based on legitimate, predefined grounds (e.g. selling the property, tenant misconduct)
- Tenants will have greater security and predictability
- Landlords must follow clearer legal routes to regain possession
This change alone marks a significant rebalancing of power in the tenant-landlord relationship.
- Open-Ended Tenancies
Fixed-term tenancy agreements will be replaced by periodic tenancies that roll on indefinitely.
This provides:
- More flexibility for tenants to move when needed
- Stronger protections against sudden evictions
- A framework for long-term renting without constantly renegotiating terms
- Fairer Rent Increases
Rent rises have been one of the most painful realities for tenants in recent years, with average rents increasing by £221 per month since 2022. The Bill introduces safeguards:
- Rent can only be increased once per year
- Two months’ notice must be given in writing
- Tenants can challenge excessive increases via tribunal
This gives renters greater control and prevents landlords from pricing them out mid-tenancy.
- A New System of Accountability
To raise standards and protect renters from rogue practices, the Bill introduces:
- A Private Rented Sector Ombudsman to resolve disputes outside of court
- A digital property portal where landlords must register and prove compliance with legal standards
- New standards for energy efficiency, safety, and property maintenance
This will make it easier for tenants to know who they’re renting from, and for responsible landlords to stand out.
What This Means for Renters
If you’re currently renting, the Bill offers some long-overdue relief:
- You can’t be evicted without valid cause
- Rent increases must follow a formal structure
- You’ll be protected by a clear complaints process if things go wrong
It won’t solve every issue overnight, but it does bring meaningful improvements to tenant security, rights, and clarity.
What This Means for Landlords
Landlords now operate under a more regulated system, but that doesn’t mean it’s unworkable. The changes reward good practice, professional conduct, and clear communication.
If you’re a landlord:
- Stay compliant by registering properties early once the portal launches
- Familiarise yourself with the new grounds for eviction
- Keep rent increases transparent and fair
Failure to adapt could lead to legal disputes, fines, or reputational damage.
Final Thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Bill is a major step forward for tenant protection in England. It ends no-fault evictions, regulates rent increases, and improves standards, all while encouraging landlords to act professionally.
Whether you rent, own, or invest, staying informed is essential. And when the time comes to buy, Survey Hut is here to help with clear, impartial property surveys that put you in control.
