The Renters' Rights Bill - an update for our tenants

The Renters' Rights Bill - an update for our tenants

The changes proposed in the Renters’ Rights Bill represent a significant shift toward tenant-focused legislation, ensuring a fairer, more transparent, and stable rental market. Tenants in the private rented sector can expect enhanced rights, better transparency and greater peace of mind under these reforms.

The Renters' Rights Bill is currently being discussed by the House of Lords. It should become law before the end of July, but we don't expect it to come into force until October at the earliest.

A summary of the proposed changes and their implications for Twenty11 tenants

Abolition of ‘no fault’ (Section 21) evictions

• Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without providing a valid reason
• Tenants will gain greater security and stability, reducing the risk of sudden eviction.

Introduction of new grounds for possession

• Landlords will still be able to regain possession in specific circumstances, such as arrears and antisocial behaviour
• Landlords will have to provide evidence and follow due procedures.

Improved rent increase protections

• Landlords will be required to give tenants a longer notice period before increasing rent
• Tenants will be able to challenge unfair rent increases through a tribunal, ensuring affordability and preventing exploitative practices.

Standardised tenancy agreements

• All tenants will transition to assured tenancies, replacing starter and fixed term tenancies
• This will allow tenants to leave with appropriate notice, improving flexibility.

Strengthened property standards and enforcement

• Enhanced requirements for property maintenance and safety standards
• Local authorities will have greater powers to enforce compliance.

Pet-friendly tenancy provisions

• Landlords will no longer be able to unreasonably refuse tenants permission to keep pets
• Tenants may need to purchase insurance to cover potential pet-related damages.

Creation of a new ombudsman for landlords

• A mandatory scheme which all private landlords will have to join
• This will provide tenants with a free and accessible route to resolve disputes.

Introduction of a property portal

• A public database where landlords must register their properties, increasing transparency and helping tenants verify property legitimacy.

We will continue to keep you updated about what this means for you as the Renters' Rights Bill works its way through parliament.

[Image: House of Lords]