Tips & Advice

The Renters' Rights Bill: What You Need to Know

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The Renters' Rights Bill is focused on improving security, rights, and protections for renters.

We recently surveyed over 7,500 renters and 34% said they hadn’t heard of the bill at all, and 34% had heard of it but didn’t know what it involved or how it might affect them.

So, we're here to break down the key points and explain how it could impact you, ensuring you're fully informed.

(This legislation will apply to landlords and tenants in England.)*

The Renters' Rights Bill will:

New rules on evictions: Removal of Section 21
Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a valid reason, giving renters greater stability and protection in their homes.
Update Grounds for Eviction
Landlords will rely on revised Section 8 grounds to regain possession, including:
Landlord or family intending to occupy the property (after 12 months).
Intention to sell the property (after 12 months).
Redevelopment or demolition requiring vacant possession.
Persistent rent arrears (tenant is at least three months in arrears).
Persistent antisocial behaviour
Transition to Periodic Tenancies
All fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will be replaced by periodic (rolling) tenancies - giving tenants more control. Tenants can end the tenancy with two months' notice at any time.
Stricter Rules on Rent Increases
Rent increases are limited to once per year and must align with market rates and landlords must provide two months' notice for any rent increase. Tenants have the right to challenge increases through the First-tier Tribunal.
Prevent ‘Backdoor’ Evictions
Landlords cannot use excessive rent increases to force tenants out. Tenants can appeal rent rises that appear to be above market rate and designed to drive them out unfairly.
Ban Rental Bidding Wars
Landlords and letting agents are banned from encouraging or accepting rental bids above the advertised price.
Ban on Advance Rent Payments
Landlords are prohibited from requiring more than one month's rent in advance. This aims to prevent exclusionary practices that disadvantage tenants unable to afford large upfront payments.
Right to Request a Pet
Landlords must respond to pet requests and can’t unreasonably refuse.
Landlords must reply within 28 days (or 35 if more info is needed)
Refusals must have valid reasons (e.g. building restrictions)
Minimum Housing Standards
A new Decent Homes Standard will be introduced for the private rental sector to ensure homes are safe, secure, and free from serious hazards.
Awaab’s Law Applied to Private Rentals
Landlords must fix serious issues like damp or mould within strict legal timeframes—or face consequences.
Ban Discrimination
Landlords will no longer be able to refuse or restrict tenants simply because they have children or receive means-tested benefits. This protection covers the whole process - from requesting information and arranging viewings to renting the property itself. The only exceptions are where there is a legitimate reason, such as avoiding statutory overcrowding or if a tenant cannot afford the rent.
Rent Repayment Orders
Tenants can apply for Rent Repayment Orders if landlords commit certain offences, such as illegal evictions or failure to comply with housing standards.
Stronger Local Council Powers
Councils will have enhanced powers to identify, investigate, and fine landlords who fail to comply with legal requirements.
A New Digital Rental Database
A central hub for landlords and tenants to access verified information on legal rights, responsibilities, and property details. Landlords must be registered to use certain possession grounds, supporting local councils and ensuring compliance.
A New Housing Ombudsman
A free, fair, and binding service to resolve disputes—aimed at reducing the burden on the court system.