The Renters’ Rights Bill: A Complete Guide for Letting Agents

Abolish section 21 evictions: Section 21 evictions will be abolished, transitioning all assured tenancies to periodic agreements. This change provides tenants with greater security and the ability to challenge rent increases or poor practices without fear of eviction. Landlords may face challenges in regaining possession of their properties under this new system, which will be implemented in one stage.

Ensure possession grounds are fair to both parties: New safeguards aim to balance tenant security with landlords’ ability to recover their property for legitimate reasons, such as selling or moving in. However, landlords may face stricter requirements and longer timelines for evictions, as well as limits on grounds that could be perceived as unfair.

Provide stronger protections against backdoor eviction: Landlords will still be able to set rents at market rates, but tenants can appeal excessive rent increases designed to force them out. An independent tribunal will oversee disputes, which may add complexity and delays for landlords attempting to adjust rents.

Introduce a new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman: A mandatory ombudsman will resolve tenant complaints quickly and impartially. While this aims to improve dispute resolution, landlords may face additional scrutiny and binding decisions that could impact their operations.

Create a Private Rented Sector Database: Landlords will need to register on a new database to demonstrate compliance with legal obligations and access certain possession grounds. This may increase administrative burdens and expose landlords to greater enforcement activity by local councils.

Give tenants strengthened rights to request a pet in the property: Landlords must consider tenant requests for pets and cannot unreasonably refuse them. While pet insurance can be required to cover damages, landlords may have less control over property usage and potential risks associated with pets.

Apply the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector: The introduction of this standard aims to improve housing quality but could require landlords to invest significantly in upgrading properties to meet stricter criteria, potentially increasing costs.

Apply ‘Awaab’s Law’ to the sector: Landlords will face legal deadlines for addressing serious hazards in their properties. Non-compliance could result in penalties, adding pressure for timely maintenance and repairs.

Make it illegal for landlords and agents to discriminate against prospective tenants in receipt of benefits or with children: This measure ensures fairness but limits landlords’ discretion over tenant selection, potentially increasing risks related to affordability or property care.

End the practice of rental bidding: Landlords and agents will be prohibited from accepting offers above advertised rents. This restricts flexibility in pricing strategies and may reduce opportunities for higher rental income in competitive markets.

Strengthen local authority enforcement: Local authorities will gain expanded powers for enforcement and penalties. Landlords may face increased oversight, reporting requirements, and higher fines for non-compliance.

Strengthen rent repayment orders: Penalties for repeat offenders will double, and superior landlords can now face repayment orders. This creates greater financial risks for landlords who fail to comply with regulations.