These reforms bring greater clarity and protection for landlords and tenants while also encouraging higher standards and consistency across the industry. As letting agents who already operate at the highest standard, we see this as a positive opportunity to support both landlords and tenants through a period of adjustment to the new legislation.
For landlords, this legislation introduces new responsibilities and many may be daunted by the evolving landscape. With many changes coming into practice around tenancy agreements, possession, rent increases and property standards, expert guidance will be critical to navigating the new status quo. We believe this Act will help raise the bar across the sector and we’re proud to play a role in supporting a more professional and fair rental market.
The main changes are:
- Abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions – landlords will need to use updated Section 8 grounds.
- End of fixed-term tenancies – tenants can give notice at any time with two months’ notice.
- Rent arrears threshold increased – landlords can only seek possession when arrears reach three months.
- Right to request pets – landlords must not unreasonably refuse pets.
- Ban on blanket benefit/family discrimination – all prospective tenants must be assessed individually.
- Ban on bidding wars – properties must be marketed at a fixed rent.
- Awaab’s Law – strict new repair timelines for hazards such as mould (14 days to investigate, 7 days to fix, 24 hours for emergencies).
- Mandatory Ombudsman membership – ensuring transparency and accountability.
When will these changes take place?
The Bill is structured so that reforms will be phased in over time, however the details of this are yet to be confirmed by the Government. We anticipate that some measures, such as the abolition of Section 21 and tenancy reform will come into force soon, while others - such as Ombudsman membership and rent-in-advance restrictions - will follow later, after a transition period to allow the sector to adjust.
Next steps
Our local teams will be in touch to talk through the changes and your options. In the meantime, please contact us directly if you’d like to discuss how the new legislation will affect your portfolio and how we can help protect your rental income.
Together, we’ll make sure you’re prepared and supported for the changes ahead.
