Renters' Right Bill - Committee Stage Summary

The sitting on the 22nd of April, 2025 included detailed debate on its purpose, potential impacts, and specific provisions like the abolition of fixed-term tenancies and changes to student accommodation rules. Members raised concerns that the Bill, while aiming to give renters more security, decent housing, and fair prices, might actually reduce the supply of rental homes by discouraging landlords from staying in the market. Some cited data showing many landlords plan to sell properties or increase rents due to the Bill, warning this could push up costs and make it harder for tenants - especially vulnerable groups - to find homes. There was also discussion about the experience in Scotland, where similar reforms led to landlords leaving and rents rising, and calls for the government to review the Bill’s real impact on housing supply and affordability.

A major topic was the government's plan to abolish fixed-term tenancies in favour of rolling, periodic ones. Many peers argued this would hurt both tenants and landlords, removing needed flexibility for groups like students, people on short-term work contracts, or those needing guarantors. Several amendments were proposed to allow short fixed terms or voluntary extension agreements, but the government resisted, saying periodic tenancies offer better security and flexibility. The debate also highlighted the unique needs of student renters, with concerns that the Bill’s approach could make it harder for students to secure housing and push them into more expensive, purpose-built blocks. Overall, the session showed strong disagreement on whether the Bill strikes the right balance between protecting tenants and keeping the rental market healthy and accessible.

This summary covers only the initial day of Committee debate. The Bill will be discussed further in the coming days and weeks, with more detailed examination of specific clauses and additional amendments expected as the process continues. Please get in touch if you have any questions or want to discuss anything related to the Renters' Rights Bill.