The government’s commitment to transforming the experience of private renting means the Renters’ Rights Bill is likely to take effect by early summer. This initiative will be introduced in a single stage to avoid confusion caused by a two-tier system, ensuring all tenants receive immediate security under the new rules.
For landlords and agents, this change means all existing tenancies, including fixed-term agreements, will automatically convert to the new system. Any new tenancies signed on or after the implementation date will also adhere to the updated regulations.
To help you stay informed, we’ve outlined the key measures in the bill, including proposed notice periods. Please note that this information has been sourced from the Gov.uk website and may be subject to change, as the bill is scheduled for review in the House of Lords in February.
Key Measures in the Renters’ Rights Bill
Section 21 Evictions and Periodic Tenancies
- All tenancies will transition to a periodic structure with a 12-month protected period.
- Landlords wishing to sell or move back into the property must provide a minimum of 4 months’ notice.
- These changes aim to enhance tenant security and reduce retaliatory eviction practices.
Fair possession grounds for both parties
- Tenants will have more security whilst landlords can recover their property when reasonable. The notice for a landlord that wishes to move back in or a close family member is 4 months notice and cannot be issued in the 12 months protected period. The same applies if a landlord wishes to sell. A tenant will be required to be in 3 months arrears before a Section 8 can be issued and the section 8 has increased from 2 weeks to 4. For more information on notices, please speak to the Lettings team.
Protections Against Unfair Rent Increases
- Tenants can challenge above-market rent increases.
- Rent adjustments in line with market value are permissible if the proper notice and procedures are followed.
Private Rented Sector Ombudsman
- An independent ombudsman will be introduced to resolve disputes between tenants and landlords impartially.
Private Rented Sector Database
- This new database will provide landlords with access to legal and compliance obligations.
Pets in Rental Properties
- Landlords must consider tenant requests to keep pets and cannot unreasonably refuse them.
- Landlords may require tenants to obtain pet insurance to cover potential damages.
Decent Homes Standard
- The bill seeks to improve living conditions by reducing the prevalence of poor-quality rental homes.
Awaab’s Law
- Clearer timelines will be set for landlords to address serious health hazards in their properties.
Anti-Discrimination Measures
- Discrimination against prospective tenants receiving welfare or those with children will be prohibited. Karl Tatler already upholds this principle to ensure fair treatment for all renters.
Ban on Rental Bidding
- It will become illegal for landlords to accept offers above the advertised rent amount.
Strengthened Local Authority Enforcement
- Local authorities will gain expanded investigatory powers, civil penalties, and reporting requirements to ensure compliance.
Enhanced Rent Repayment Orders
- Measures will ensure repeat offenders face maximum financial penalties.
How Karl Tatler is Preparing
At Karl Tatler, we already align with many of these proposed measures and are well-prepared to implement the new regulations. For periodic tenancies, we are working closely with solicitors and taking proactive steps to ensure this significant shift in lettings legislation—arguably the most transformative in 20 years—is handled as smoothly as possible.
Our priority is to make the process stress-free for our managed landlords. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the bill in more detail, please don’t hesitate to contact our Lettings team at 0151 342 5777.
