Details on the implementation of the Renters Reform Bill remain limited, it was introduced to Parliament on 11th September 2024 and if passed without amendments, the bill could come into effect as early as Spring/Summer 2025. We are committed to keeping you updated with the latest information to address concerns and provide reassurance.
After an initial delay, the Labour government has brought Renters’ Rights back into focus with the introduction of the Renters Rights Bill. The key proposals include:
- Abolishing Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
- Making all tenancies periodic (month-by-month)
- Expanding possession grounds to allow landlords to reclaim their properties when needed
- Strengthening tenants’ rights to challenge rent increases
- Granting tenants the right to request pets, which landlords must consider reasonably, with the option for tenants to arrange pet insurance
- Applying the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector
- Creating a digital database to provide essential information for landlords, tenants, and councils
- Establishing a private rented sector ombudsman for quicker and more cost-effective dispute resolutions
- Prohibiting discrimination against tenants receiving benefits or those with children
- Providing local councils with enhanced investigatory and enforcement powers
The lettings industry has always been highly regulated, and it continues to evolve. The proposed bill represents another major shift, but it’s far from the first significant change we’ve experienced. Over the past decade, we’ve successfully adapted to reforms such as the Tenant Fees Act, changes in electrical safety standards, new licensing requirements, and the introduction of Right to Rent checks. We believe these new changes will also be manageable and become part of standard practice over time. The KT Lettings team is here to support you through the process and ensure you’re kept informed every step of the way.
The proposed abolition of ‘no fault’ evictions aim to protect tenants from being unfairly evicted due to rent increases or for reporting maintenance issues—something that we at Karl Tatler have always actively discouraged. Most of our landlords already prioritize maintaining positive relationships with their tenants and reaching compromises to ensure smooth, successful tenancies. According to the current bill, landlords will still have the option to regain possession of their properties for reasons such as selling, moving back in, rent arrears, or anti-social behaviour. However, a 12-month protection period will be introduced at the start of a tenancy, preventing landlords from evicting tenants during this time, even for these reasons. Additionally, landlords will need to provide four months’ notice, and properties cannot be re-let for at least a year if tenants are evicted for reasons like selling or moving back in.
All tenancies will become periodic from the beginning, meaning tenants can end the tenancy at any time by providing two months’ notice. While specific details on how this will be facilitated are still emerging, it is expected that Section 8 notices will be restructured to account for these changes. The Government is aiming to pass the Renters Rights Bill by next summer, which should allow time to clarify uncertainties—such as how the courts will manage an increased number of Section 8 eviction cases.
Most of the remaining proposals appear to build on existing policies, so we are optimistic that disruption will be minimal. If you are managed by Karl Tatler, rest assured that we already have processes in place that can be adapted to meet the new requirements, ensuring a seamless transition.
Our team is actively preparing for these changes and staying informed to ensure that we can continue to offer you the best service. If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact our Lettings department at 0151 342 5777. We will keep you updated with any new developments as they arise.
