The UK rental market is soon to see a significant transformation with the introduction of the
Renter’s Rights Bill, also known as the Renters (Reform) Bill. This legislation aims to
rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants and improve the quality and
fairness of the private rented sector.
Here is short summary breakdown of the key proposals and what they mean for landlords,
letting agents and tenants alike.
1. End of Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
The most discussed change is the proposed abolition of Section 21 notice. This means
landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without providing a valid reason.
Instead, landlords will have to use Section 8, which will be reformed to include a broader
range of legitimate grounds for possession (e.g. selling the property or repeated rent
arrears).
have a legal route to regain possession when needed.
👉 Why it matters: Tenants will have more security in their homes, while landlords will still
2. All Tenancies to Become Periodic
The Bill proposes to scrap fixed-term tenancy agreements entirely, replacing them with
rolling periodic tenancies. Tenants will be able to give two months’ notice at any time,
giving them flexibility and reducing the pressure to commit to long-term contracts.
👉 Why it matters: This shift allows tenants to move more freely, while landlords will need
to adjust to shorter notice periods.
3. A New Property Portal for Landlords
A new digital property portal will be introduced where landlords must register their rental
properties. This aims to increase transparency, drive up standards, and provide a one-stop
shop for compliance information.
👉 Why it matters: Helps responsible landlords stand out, while rogue landlords are more
easily identified and held accountable.
4. A New Private Rental Ombudsman
To handle disputes fairly and quickly, the Bill introduces a new Private Rented Sector
Ombudsman. This will be mandatory for all landlords and will allow tenants to escalate
unresolved complaints without going to court.
👉 Why it matters: Tenants gain faster access to justice, and landlords can resolve disputes
without legal costs.
5. Rent Increases Limited to Once Per Year
Rent increases will be capped at one per year, with a minimum two-month notice period. If
tenants believe the increase is excessive, they can challenge it through the First Tier
Tribunal.
👉 Why it matters: Brings predictability for tenants and encourages fair market-based rent
adjustments.
6. A Fairer Deal for Tenants with Pets
Landlords will be required to consider requests for pets, and cannot unreasonably refuse.
However, they can ask tenants to get pet insurance or pay for any damage caused.
👉 Why it matters: More tenants can keep pets, while landlords are protected against
potential damage.
7. Minimum Housing Standards (Decent Homes Standard)
The Decent Homes Standard currently used in social housing will be extended to the private
rented sector. This includes requirements for safe, warm and well-maintained homes.
👉 Why it matters: Helps drive out substandard accommodation and ensures better living
conditions for tenants.
8. Banning Blanket Discrimination
The Bill will make it illegal for landlords to refuse tenants purely based on receiving
benefits or having children. This move aims to promote equality and reduce discrimination
in the rental market.
👉 Why it matters: Opens more opportunities for families and low-income tenants.
The Renter’s Rights Bill represents a major change in the UK rental sector. While it
introduces more rights for tenants, it also provides clarity and structure for landlords and
agents.
Whether you’re a tenant, landlord or letting agent, it’s essential to understand these
changes and prepare for implementation, expected in 2025.
Need help navigating the upcoming reforms?
Contact Yeti Homes today, we are here to guide you through the changes and ensure you
stay compliant.