Posted: 13th February 2025
Renters’ Rights Bill: What landlords need to know
What the Renters’ Rights Bill Means for Landlords: Your FAQs Answered
The Renters’ Rights Bill is on its way and is expected to become law by the summer. While it’s not final just yet, it’s set to bring big changes to the rental market—especially for landlords. The biggest shift? The end of Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs), the most common type of rental agreement.
So, what does this mean for you as a landlord? We’ve rounded up the most common questions and broken them down in a straightforward way.
What does the Renters Rights Bill mean for landlords?
The main change is that fixed-term tenancy agreements will be a thing of the past. Instead, all tenancies will become assured periodic tenancies, meaning they’ll roll on a month-to-month basis until either:
- The tenant decides to leave, or
- The landlord meets one of the legal grounds for taking the property back.
What kind of security will tenants have?
Under the new rules, tenants get a 12-month protected period. This means that for the first year, landlords can’t move back in or sell the property—unless they’re selling to another landlord who keeps the tenancy running.
That said, tenants can leave at any time during this period as long as they give two months’ notice that lines up with their rent payment date.
Will the changes apply to both new and existing tenancies?
Yes, as things stand, the new rules will apply to all tenancies—both new and existing—on the same day. There’s no plan to introduce them gradually.
However, there should be a transition period before enforcement begins, giving landlords and agents time to adjust.
How will I be able to regain possession of my property?
The end of Section 21 (no-fault evictions) means landlords will need to serve a Section 8 notice instead, stating a valid reason for reclaiming the property. Acceptable grounds include:
- Wanting to sell the property
- Moving in (or having a family member move in)
- Rent arrears
- Antisocial behaviour
While this change removes the flexibility of no-fault evictions, it still covers the most common reasons landlords need to reclaim their property.
Can I still increase rent?
Yes! Landlords can still increase rent once a year, but they must do so by serving a Section 13 notice. Any increase must be fair and in line with local market rates, and evidence may be needed if challenged.
If a tenant disagrees with the new rent, they can take the case to the First Tier Tribunal, but they must do so before the increase takes effect.
Will rental bidding still be allowed?
No. The bill will ban rental bidding wars, meaning:
- Landlords and agents must advertise a set asking rent
- They can’t encourage or accept offers above this amount
This rule is designed to make the rental market fairer and more predictable for tenants.
What happens if landlords or agents don’t follow the new rules?
Breaking the new laws could result in some hefty fines. Local authorities will have more power to enforce the rules, with penalties including:
- Up to £7,000 for minor or first-time breaches
- Up to £40,000 for repeated violations
This makes it more important than ever to stay informed and compliant.
Final Thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Bill is still going through the legal process, so some details could change before it becomes law. But the key takeaways are clear: fixed-term tenancies are ending, no-fault evictions are going and rent bidding will no longer be allowed.
If you’re unsure how these changes might affect you please contact us —we’re here to help you navigate the changes with confidence!
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