After eight years of political promises, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has finally become law.
Theresa May pledged reform, Boris Johnson echoed it and Rishi Sunak’s government came close - until the Bill was dropped in the pre-election wash-up.
Now Labour has delivered the biggest shake-up of the private rented sector in a generation.
For agents and landlords, this isn’t just a new rulebook - it’s a new reality. Section 21 “no-fault” evictions will go, property standards are being raised, and compliance expectations will multiply.
That may sound like another layer of regulation, and it is! But it’s also an opportunity.
The agents and landlords who adapt early - embracing transparency, quality, and professionalism - will define the next era of lettings.
What the new Act brings
- End of so-called ‘no-fault’ evictions: The measure abolishes Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, which allows landlords to evict tenants without a stated reason;
- Replacement of fixed-term tenancies: All tenancies will be converted to a single, “rolling” periodic tenancy model;
- Ban on rent bidding wars: Landlords and agents are prohibited from soliciting or accepting offers of rent that are higher than the initial advertised price;
- Annual rent increases: Rent can only be increased once per year. Tenants can appeal to a tribunal if they believe the increase is unfair;
- Discrimination protection: Landlords will be legally prevented from discriminating against prospective tenants based on whether they have children or receive benefits;
- Decent Homes Standard: The measure applies the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector, ensuring properties meet minimum quality requirements;
- New landlord database: A national register of landlords and their properties.
- Pet requests: Tenants will have the right to request a pet in their rental property, which landlords cannot unreasonably deny.
A moment to prepare, not panic
The details and timings of implementation are still emerging—and it may take until well into 2026 before key provisions come into force.
For landlords, the message is this: don’t retreat - adapt. The fundamentals of good property investment haven’t changed. Quality homes, reliable tenants and proactive management will remain the foundations of success.
Looking ahead
This is a milestone moment, but not the end of the road. The private rented sector has weathered constant evolution and remains one of the UK’s most resilient markets. If landlords use this period to modernise, communicate clearly and lead with professionalism, the future could be stronger - not weaker - for those who stay the course.
Change is here. But with the right approach, the future of the PRS can still be strong, stable, and sustainable.
