Renters’ Rights Act 2025

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, marking one of the most significant reforms to England’s private rented sector in decades. The Act aims to improve security, standards, and transparency for tenants while reshaping responsibilities for landlords and strengthening enforcement powers for local authorities.

Key Changes at a Glance

End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions
Landlords can no longer evict tenants without a valid legal reason.

All Tenancies Become Periodic
Fixed-term tenancies will be abolished, giving tenants greater flexibility and security.

Rent Increase Controls
Rent can only be increased once per year, with two months’ notice. Tenants can challenge increases at a tribunal.

Private Rented Sector Database
All landlords must register themselves and their properties, uploading compliance documents such as:

• Gas Safety Certificate
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

Mandatory Landlord Ombudsman
Free, impartial dispute resolution for tenants and landlords.

Decent Homes Standard & Awaab’s Law
Private rentals must meet the Decent Homes Standard. Serious hazards (including damp and mould) must be fixed within strict timeframes.

Additional Tenant Protections

• Right to request a pet (cannot be unreasonably refused)
• Ban on rental bidding
• Ban on discrimination against tenants with children or those receiving benefits

Implementation Timeline

27 December 2025 – Local authorities gain new enforcement powers.

January 2026 – Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law provisions begin.

Spring - Summer 2026 – Main tenancy reforms:

• Section 21 abolished
• All new tenancies become periodic
• Rent increase rules apply
• Ombudsman and database go live

Late 2026 into 2027 – Transition for existing tenancies.

The government will give at least six months’ notice before major changes take effect.

What Landlords Should Do Now

• Review tenancy agreements and remove clauses that will become invalid.
• Inspect properties and plan for repairs to meet the Decent Homes Standard.
• Gather compliance documents for database registration.
• Budget for upgrades to address hazards like damp, mould, and poor insulation.
• Stay informed via official guidance and sector bodies such as the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA).

What Tenants Should Know

• Stronger rights to challenge unfair rent increases and poor housing conditions.
• Ability to request a pet, with reasonable consideration required.
• Discrimination based on children or benefits will be illegal.
• A new Ombudsman will make it easier to resolve disputes without going to court.

More Information:

• Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act – GOV.UK
• NRLA Resources for Landlords (www.nrla.org.uk)