The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to transform the private rented sector in England, bringing significant changes for tenants and landlords alike. Understanding these reforms is essential to ensure compliance, protect your rights, and navigate the rental market confidently. At Kidwells Solicitors, we provide expert guidance and practical support to help our clients prepare for and adapt to these changes.
What the Renters’ Rights Bill Means
The Bill is designed to improve security, fairness, and transparency in private renting. Here’s a detailed overview of the key reforms:
Abolition of “No-Fault” Evictions
The infamous “section 21” eviction process will be abolished. Previously, landlords could regain possession of a property without giving a reason.
All assured tenancies will become periodic tenancies, continuing indefinitely until either party gives notice.
- Landlords may regain possession only under clearly defined grounds for possession, with new grounds being added by the act.
- Minimum notice periods will be increased for certain grounds. .
- This reform ensures tenants have more security and landlords operate under clear, fair rules.
Rent Regulation and Protection
The Bill introduces rules to ensure rents are fair and transparent:
- Rent increases: Landlords may raise rent once per year, following a formal notice process. Tenants can challenge excessive increases at a tribunal.
- Limits on rent in advance: Landlords may only request up to one month’s rent in advance.
- Ban on rental bidding: Landlords cannot encourage or accept offers above the advertised rent.
These changes help prevent exploitative practices and protect tenants financially.
Tenant Protections and Anti-Discrimination
- Protection against discrimination: Landlords cannot refuse tenants based on benefits, family status, or other protected characteristics.
- Pets: Landlords must consider a request to have a pet and cannot unreasonably refuse.
- Property standards: Landlords must comply with a Decent Homes Standard and respond promptly to hazards, extending the principles of Awaab’s Law to private rentals
Transparency and Accountability
- Ombudsman for the Private Rented Sector: Tenants can raise complaints and receive binding resolutions.
- PRS Database: Landlords must register their properties, allowing tenants and authorities to check compliance.
- Enhanced enforcement: Local authorities can issue civil penalties up to £40,000 for serious or repeated non-compliance. Rent Repayment Orders (RROs) allow tenants to reclaim up to 24 months’ rent.
Changes to Tenancy Agreements
- Fixed-term ASTs will disappear, replaced by periodic tenancies.
- Standard terms regarding termination, possession, rent increases, and notice periods will change.
- Landlords must update agreements to ensure compliance.
How Kidwells Solicitors Can Help
Navigating these changes can be complex. Our team offers specialist guidance for tenants, landlords, and property investors:
For Landlords:
- Review and update tenancy agreements to comply with the new Bill.
- Provide advice on lawful rent increases, draft Notices for proposing a new rent, and represent in First-Tier Tribunal Hearings.
- Provide advice on Possession Proceedings, draft Notices, Claim Forms and represent Landlords in these Proceedings.
- Provide advice on appeals for non-compliance and sanctions imposed by Local Authorities.
For Tenants:
- Explain your rights under the new Bill, including rent challenges and protections from eviction.
- Support with complaints, disputes, or unfair treatment by landlords.
- Provide advice on tenancy agreements, deposits, and advance rent payments.
For Property Transactions:
- Ensure conveyancing documents reflect compliance with the Bill.
- Advise on tenant rights when buying or selling rented property.
- Support due diligence to identify compliance risks in rental portfolios.