Sweeping changes to landlord and tenant law are making their way through Parliament, with the newly reworked Renters’ Rights Bill (formerly the Renters’ Reform Bill) set to become law later this year. This landmark legislation is expected to bring significant transformation to the private rented sector across England.
At Adkins Property, with over three decades of industry experience and a strong lettings presence across the Cotswolds, we’re keeping a close eye on how these reforms will impact our landlords, tenants, and local rental markets.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Key Changes for the Private Rented Sector
🔹 Goodbye to Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
Section 21 will be scrapped, meaning landlords must now use an enhanced version of Section 8 for all evictions — requiring a legally valid reason, such as wanting to sell the property or move back in. New grounds under Section 8 will also strengthen a landlord’s ability to act in cases of rent arrears or anti-social behaviour.
🔹 All Tenancies to Become Periodic
Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will automatically become rolling ‘periodic’ tenancies with no fixed end date. Tenants will be able to leave at any time with two months’ notice, while landlords will need to give four months’ notice to regain possession — a major shift in tenancy flexibility.
🔹 Restrictions on Rent Increases
Landlords may only increase rent once a year via a formal Section 13 notice. Rent increases must reflect local market rates and can no longer be included in tenancy agreements. Tenants will also have the right to challenge unfair increases at a First-tier Tribunal.
🔹 A Mandatory Landlord Ombudsman Scheme
All landlords — whether self-managing or using an agent — will be required to join a new Ombudsman scheme. This will give tenants free, faster alternatives to court when resolving disputes, aiming to ease pressure on the legal system.
🔹 New National Landlord Register
A new online portal will require landlords to register themselves and their properties for a government-set fee. This aims to raise rental standards and improve transparency across the sector.
🔹 Greater Protections for Tenants with Pets
While landlords can still advertise properties as “no pets”, current tenants’ pet requests must be considered reasonably. Refusals can be challenged, and landlords will be permitted to ask for pet insurance or cover related costs.
🔹 No More Blanket Discrimination
It will no longer be lawful to refuse applications from tenants receiving benefits or families with children, though affordability checks can still be used as part of the process.
🔹 Compliance with the Decent Homes Standard
Landlords will be legally required to ensure rental homes are free from hazards and meet the Decent Homes Standard. This includes applying “Awaab’s Law” — ensuring issues like mould and damp are dealt with swiftly.
What This Means for You
We understand that these changes may feel significant, but rest assured — our average tenancy lasts around 36 months, well above the national average, and we don’t anticipate any dramatic impact on the stability of our managed tenancies.
This year, across our strong portfolio, we are confident in our proactive approach and long-standing relationships with both landlords and tenants.
Now more than ever, it’s important to carefully consider your options when it comes to your rental property. Whether you’re thinking of selling, re-letting, or managing a change in tenancy, we’re here to help you make the right decision for your circumstances.
Need Help Navigating the Changes?
As your trusted local letting agent, we’ll continue to keep you informed as the Bill progresses and becomes law. We’ll provide timely updates, clear advice, and personal support so you feel confident about what’s coming.
If you’d like to speak to us directly about how the Renters’ Rights Bill might affect your property, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re happy to arrange a one-on-one call or in-person meeting.
Adkins Property — your experienced guide through the changing rental landscape.
