DATES ANNOUNCED FOR LANDMARK RENTERS RIGHTS BILL

Key dates for the new Renters’ Rights Bill, have finally been announced, providing a clear roadmap and way forward in the introduction of this controversial legislation.

It is critical that landlords are aware of the details and content of the Bill, begin to plan ahead and implement any necessary changes and /or seek professional advice.

Key Dates

• 1 May 2026: The first phase of reforms comes into effect. This includes the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, introduction of assured periodic tenancies, and reforms to possession grounds. 
• 27 December 2025: Local authorities will be granted new investigatory powers to better enforce housing standards .
• Late 2026: Launch of a national database for private rented sector (PRS) properties and the establishment of a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman. 
• Beyond 2026: A third phase will focus on raising the quality of PRS homes, including modernising the Decent Homes Standard and extending protections under Awaab’s Law. 

Kate Kelly of Smith and Sons Residential Management team explained: “These dates finally give renters, landlords, and local authorities the clarity they have long needed. It’s critical now that landlords prepare, seek professional advice and implement the changes in order to achieve compliance.

“Smith and Sons will continue to update and advise all of the landlords we currently work with, and for whom we manage over 500 properties. We recognise and understand the complexities surrounding the Bill and welcome new landlord clients at this pivotal time for the sector, as together we navigate our way forward.”

The dedicated Residential Management team at Smith and Sons are able to take over the responsibility of the day to day management of individual rental properties or wider portfolios, conducting annual inspections and managing annual rent increases, as well as undertaking a full range of management services. Contact us to find out more by emailing res@smithandsons.net or call 0151 647 9272

The Renters Rights Bill includes the following changes:

• Section 21 will no longer exist – all landlords will need to provide a legitimate reason to terminate a tenancy
• Fixed-term tenancies will no longer exist and becoming periodic or rolling 
• Landlords must join a Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman 
• Landlords must join a Private Rental Sector Database
• All properties must meet the new Decent Homes Standard
• Landlords must comply with AWABB’s law which means that any issues such as damp must be addressed within a given timeframe
• There will be a blanket ban on rental bidding
• Tenants will not be required to pay more than one month's rent in advance
• Local authorities will have increased powers to enforce the new rules and impose penalties