LANDLORDS, GET AHEAD OF THE RENTERS' RIGHTS BILL

The Renters' Reform Act was dismissed prior to the 2024 General Election and was replaced by the Renters' Rights Bill, which will be introduced in early 2026, presenting major changes to the UK’s private rental market. 

It’s critical that Landlords get ahead and understand how the Bill will affect their ownership and management of a rental property and any shift in impact to tenants.

Key changes include the abolition of Section 21, as well as the introduction of a Decent Homes Standard and Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman. The Bill aims ultimately to improve the state of the private rental sector and enhance protection for tenants across England and Wales.

Here are the key points to understand…

• 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

Understanding these changes and what they mean to landlords is crucial, as is getting ahead and introducing any modifications to properties or processes that will help navigate what inevitably lies ahead.

The Smith and Sons Residential Lettings and Property Management team can help and support you. From advice and support to complete property management, get in touch with us today by emailing res@smithandsons.net or call 0151 647 9272