With the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, we understand that many landlords may be feeling uncertain about what these changes mean. There’s been a lot of discussion, and understandably, some concern about how the legislation will impact property management, evictions, and tenant relationships.
At Jones Robinson, we want to reassure our landlords: everything will be okay.
Our team has been following the Bill’s progress closely, and while it introduces major reforms, the overall goal is to create clarity, fairness, and stability across the rental sector — for both tenants and landlords.
What’s Changing? The Key Points Landlords Should Know
According to industry guidance from Propertymark, the Bill introduces 10 key reforms that will reshape how the private rented sector operates in England:
- ASTs become periodic tenancies
All tenancies will automatically become rolling (periodic) tenancies. This means no fixed end date — they continue indefinitely until properly ended by notice. - Clearer grounds for possession
Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions will be abolished. Landlords can still regain possession using clear and specific grounds — such as selling the property, moving in, or dealing with anti-social behaviour. - New tenancy structure and documentation
Landlords must provide tenants with a written statement of terms at the start of the tenancy and update existing tenants about the changes within one month of the legislation taking effect. - Rent increases limited to once per year
Any rent increase must follow a formal process (Section 13 notice) with at least two months’ notice, and tenants will be able to challenge unfair rises through a tribunal. - Restrictions on rent bidding
The advertised rent must be clear and final. Landlords and agents can no longer encourage or accept offers above the listed amount. - Greater rights for tenants to keep pets
Requests for pets can’t be unreasonably refused, and landlords must respond within 28 days. There are reasonable exemptions, such as restrictions imposed by freeholders. - Anti-discrimination measures
It will be illegal to refuse tenants purely because they have children or receive benefits, though affordability checks remain valid. - New standards for rented homes
All rental properties must meet the Decent Homes Standard — meaning they must be safe, well-maintained, and free from serious hazards such as damp or mould (as set out in Awaab’s Law). - Landlord registration and redress
All landlords will be required to register with a new Private Rented Sector Database and join the Landlord Ombudsman, who will handle complaints and disputes. - Tougher local enforcement
Councils will gain stronger powers to enforce the rules, with fines starting at £7,000 and rising to £40,000 for repeat offences.
Fear vs Fact: Clearing Up the Myths
There’s a lot of misinformation surrounding the Bill, but the reality is far more balanced.
- Fear: “I’ll lose control over who I rent to.”
Fact: You can still choose your tenants, conduct affordability checks, and set appropriate terms — just without discrimination. - Fear: “I won’t be able to remove problem tenants.”
Fact: You absolutely can.The new system simply requires you to use fair, transparent grounds for possession. - Fear: “This will make renting harder.”
Fact: The Bill’s focus is on making renting fairer, not harder, for everyone involved.
We are Here to Support You
As your trusted letting experts, we’re here to help you navigate every change with confidence. Our role is to:
- Keep you fully informed on what’s changing and when
- Ensure your tenancies remain fully compliant
- Provide clear, practical advice tailored to your portfolio
- Handle any challenges with professionalism and efficiency
So, if you’re feeling unsure about the Renters’ Rights Bill... talk to us.
We’ll make sure your investment continues to work for you, every step of the way.
Contact our lettings team today on 01635 581991 to find out more.