The Renters’ Rights Bill: What Landlords & Tenants Need to Know 🏡
Introduction
The Renters’ Rights Bill represents the biggest reform to the private rented sector in England for a generation.
Designed to improve tenant security while professionalising the rental market, the legislation introduces significant changes that every landlord and tenant must understand.
At Element Properties & Co, we help landlords stay compliant, protect their investments, and adapt confidently to regulatory change.
What Is the Renters’ Rights Bill?
The Renters’ Rights Bill replaces and builds upon the proposed Renters’ Reform Bill and aims to create a fairer, safer, and more transparent rental system.
Its core focus is to improve security for tenants while ensuring good landlords are supported and poor practices are removed from the sector.
Key Changes Every Landlord Must Know ⚖️
1. Abolition of Section 21 (“No-Fault” Evictions)
Section 21 will be abolished, meaning landlords can no longer evict tenants without a valid legal reason.
Instead, landlords must rely on strengthened Section 8 grounds, including:
- Rent arrears
- Anti-social behaviour
- Landlord selling the property
- Landlord or family moving back in
These grounds are being clarified and strengthened to ensure legitimate possession remains possible.
2. All Tenancies Become Periodic 📄
Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will be replaced by a single system of rolling periodic tenancies.
This means:
- Tenants can leave with two months’ notice
- Landlords must use valid Section 8 grounds to regain possession
This increases tenant flexibility while placing greater emphasis on professional tenancy management.
3. Rent Increases Limited to Once Per Year 💷
Rent increases will be restricted to once per year and must be served using a formal notice.
Tenants will retain the right to challenge unfair increases through a tribunal if the rent exceeds market value.
4. Stronger Rules on Property Standards 🛠️
All rental properties must meet the Decent Homes Standard, bringing the private rented sector closer to social housing requirements.
This includes:
- Homes free from serious hazards
- Safe electrics, heating, and insulation
- Reasonable repair and maintenance standards
Landlords who fail to maintain properties may face enforcement action.
5. New Private Rented Sector Ombudsman 🧾
All landlords will be required to join a mandatory Ombudsman scheme.
This provides tenants with a clear route to resolve disputes without immediately resorting to court proceedings.
6. National Landlord Database 📊
A new digital landlord register will improve transparency and enforcement, helping councils identify repeat offenders while supporting compliant landlords.
7. Pets: A Default Right (With Conditions) 🐾
Tenants will have a strengthened right to request a pet. Landlords may only refuse with a valid reason.
Landlords will be allowed to require pet insurance to cover potential damage.
What This Means for Landlords
The Renters’ Rights Bill marks a clear shift toward a more professional, well-managed private rented sector.
- Compliance is no longer optional
- Documentation and record-keeping are critical
- Proactive property management protects long-term returns
Well-run portfolios will continue to perform strongly — particularly in high-demand areas like North and East London.
How Element Supports Landlords Through the Changes 🤝
At Element Properties & Co, we help landlords stay compliant and profitable by offering:
- Full property management aligned with new legislation
- Rent reviews based on evidence and market data
- Compliance audits and documentation management
- Professional handling of possession and dispute processes
Our systems, local knowledge, and proactive approach mean landlords are prepared — not reacting.
Is the Renters’ Rights Bill a Bad Thing?
For responsible landlords, the answer is no.
The legislation is designed to remove poor practices, not good landlords. Those who operate transparently, maintain properties properly, and communicate clearly with tenants are well positioned for the future.
Need Advice on Letting Under the New Rules?
If you’re a landlord in North or East London and want to understand how the Renters’ Rights Bill affects your property, we’re here to help.
