The Labour government’s Renters’ Rights Bill marks the most significant shake-up to the private rented sector since the Housing Act 1988.
These reforms will reshape how landlords manage properties and how tenants rent them. Here’s what’s coming:

Section 21 ‘No Fault’ Evictions to Be Abolished

Section 21 notice which landlords can use to end tenancies without giving a reason will be scrapped.
Landlords will instead use updated Section 8 grounds to regain possession, with new options (e.g. selling a property).

End of Fixed-Term Tenancies

Assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced by periodic tenancies from the commencement date (which will be confirmed shortly after the bill gets Royal Assent)
All tenancies will become monthly and open-ended.
Tenants will now give two months’ notice if they wish to leave.

Rent Increases – One Per Year

Rent can only rise once a year via the Section 13 process.
Rent review clauses in existing agreements will no longer apply.
Landlords must give two months’ notice of any increase, and tenants can challenge it at the First-tier Tribunal free of charge.

More Rights for Tenants with Pets

Landlords must respond to pet requests within 28 days and can’t unreasonably refuse.
If declined unfairly, tenants can escalate or take legal action.

A New Private Rented Sector Ombudsman

All private landlords will have to join the new Landlord Redress Scheme (PRS Ombudsman).
It will handle complaints from tenants, with powers to require apologies, corrective action, or compensation.
Non-compliance could lead to banning orders for repeat offenders.

A Digital Property Portal

A new government portal will require landlords to register themselves and their properties.
It will act as a central record of compliance and support local authorities in targeting enforcement effectively.

Learn More with DASH Services

Renters’ Rights Bill: A Guide for Landlords & Agents (Part 1 & 2)

DASH have put together a FREE  two-part course for landlords and agents covering everything from tenancy reform and rent rules to enforcement powers, Awaab’s Law, and the Decent Homes Standard update.
Available now via the DASH E-learning Portal