The Renters’ Rights Bill (RRB) passed its third reading in the House of Commons and is moving to the House of Lords, with Royal Assent expected by Spring. Key changes include:

 

  1. Section 21 and Fixed Terms: Abolishes “no-fault” evictions and fixed-term tenancies, giving tenants flexibility but reducing landlords’ certainty. Landlords may use alternative agreements or charge higher rents for security.
  2. Grounds for Possession: All evictions must now use Section 8 with expanded, but restrictive grounds. Serving defective notices may result in penalties.
  3. Rent Increases: Rent hikes must follow the statutory Section 13 process, limiting increases to once annually and allowing tenants to contest them, likely slowing rent growth.
  4. PRS Database and Redress Schemes: Mandatory landlord registration and redress scheme participation, increasing costs and administrative burdens.
  5. Standards: The Decent Homes Standard will extend to the private sector, and Awaab’s Law will apply to private rentals.
  6. Rent in Advance: Bans collecting rent in advance over one month, potentially complicating payment security for landlords.
  7. Guarantors: Guarantor liability for rent ends if the sole tenant dies, but remains for property damage.
  8. Pets: Landlords must reasonably allow pets, with options to recover insurance costs for damage.
  9. Discrimination: Prohibits tenant discrimination based on children or benefit receipt, though affordability checks remain.
  10. Local Authority Powers: Councils gain new enforcement duties and investigatory powers, increasing pressure on resources.