The Renters’ Rights Act has now become law.

Section 21, often called the ‘no-fault’ route, is being removed. Instead of ending a tenancy without explanation, landlords will follow a structured process through Section 8.

What this means for landlords:

You can still regain possession with a specific legal ground. (Scroll down to the next section to see what the legal grounds are).

With Section 21 removed, Section 8 has been strengthened to give landlords more options for taking back a property when needed. Grounds now include:

• Selling the property – landlords can take back possession to sell.
• Moving in – landlords or close family can reclaim a property to live in.
• Tenant fault – stronger provisions for dealing with arrears, damage, or other breaches of tenancy.

What this means for landlords:

You retain legal routes to possession. Notice periods have been adjusted and there are penalties for misusing grounds. With the right prep and record-keeping, you’ll still be protected.

Fixed-term tenancies will be replaced with rolling monthly agreements. They’ll no longer be a set end date.

What this means for landlords:

Tenancies will no longer automatically end after 6 or 12 months. They’ll continue until a tenant chooses to leave, or a landlord serves notice using a valid ground. This can help retain good tenants for longer, while still being able to regain possession through Section 8 when needed.

Rent increases are limited to once a year. They must be issued with two months’ notice via a Section 13 notice.

Tenants can still appeal to the First Tier Tribunal (FTT) if they believe an increase is unfair. Under the new rules, any rent increase will not take effect until after the Tribunal’s decision. This could take several months to process. The Tribunal’s decision is final and binding.

What this means for landlords:

If you plan ahead and check that your rent is in line with the local market, you’ll reduce the risk of any problems. Allow for possible delays if a case goes to Tribunal.

They’ll be stricter requirements to meet safety and quality standards. From new rules on tackling damp and mould to unsafe living conditions. Local authorities will be given stronger powers to enforce compliance. Tenants will also have clearer routes to seek compensation if standards aren’t met.

What this means for landlords:

Regular maintenance and quick action on repairs will be more important than ever. Ensuring your properties meet these standards will protect you from penalties and disputes.

Tenants will have the right to request a pet. You’ll need to consider the request and can’t refuse without a reasonable reason.

What this means for landlords:

You can no longer apply a blanket ‘no pets’ policy. Tenants will be responsible for any pet-caused damage.

All landlords must join a new ombudsman scheme. This gives tenants a straightforward way to resolve disputes without going through the courts.

What this means for landlords:

Registration will be compulsory. Being part of the scheme will keep you compliant and provide a less costly route to resolve disputes than court action.

A new online database will be introduced to improve transparency. It will act as a central hub for compliance information, allowing tenants to check that a property meets legal requirements. For example, tenants can view documents such as electrical safety reports or EPC certificates.

What this means for landlords:

Registration on the database will be mandatory, but personal details will not be shared. Keeping documentation up to date will be essential to remain compliant.

It will be an offence to discriminate against tenants based on circumstances such as receiving benefits or having children.

What this means for landlords:

We already ensure every applicant is treated fairly and comply with legal requirements.