Renters’ Rights Bill – Update for Landlords July 2025

Bill Progress – Still No Royal Assent

Although the Bill has already passed through the Committee and Report Stages in the House of Lords concluding on the 18^th July 2025 , the Government has now confirmed that its progression has been delayed.

 

The final stages — including the Bill’s return to the Commons and Royal Assent — are now expected to take place in the autumn when the Bill returns to the Commons in September.

 

Royal Assent is now likely to be granted before 16 September.

 

What This Means for You

The original implementation timeline for phased reforms starting in October 2025 is now under review.

 

What’s Still Proposed

While the timetable has slipped, the key proposed changes remain broadly the same:

1. Abolition of Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions

You will need to rely on updated and expanded Section 8 grounds, including possession for sale or landlord occupation.

 

1. All Tenancies to Become Periodic
   Fixed terms will be removed in favour of rolling agreements, although you will still have rights to regain possession with valid grounds though Section 8.

 

1. Rent Controls and Bidding Restrictions
   Rent increases will be limited to once annually with stricter notice rules. Open market bidding wars will be banned — the advertised rent must be the final rent.

 

1. Lifetime Deposit Scheme (Likely Not Mandatory)
   Intended to simplify deposit transfers between tenancies — the scheme will be optional for landlords.

 

 

1. Tenant Discrimination Rules giving stronger Tenant protection

No blanket bans on families with children or benefit recipients, but landlords can still decline pets with good reason.

 

1. Property Condition Requirements

The “Decent Homes Standard” and Awaab’s Law will raise minimum standards around health and safety, particularly damp and mould.

 

1. Landlord Ombudsman & PRS Database

A new landlord ombudsman and national PRS database are proposed, with increased enforcement powers for local councils. This gives you a  free, faster alternative to court for disputes

 

1. Tougher Penalties for Non-Compliance
   Fines and restrictions will be strengthened for those who breach rules or fail to meet standards.

 

 

What This Means for You

 

We’ll continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as the legislation progresses.

 

Although no immediate action is required, we recommend familiarising yourself with the proposed reforms and considering how they may affect your property strategy long term preparing for their likely introduction in 2026.

 

The delay gives you time to prepare and for the Government to respond to industry feedback — particularly on issues that risk unfairly penalising responsible landlords.

 

There is still opportunity for more  positive amendments before the Bill is finalised.

 

As always, our team is on hand to support you to navigate these changes. If you have questions or would like to discuss the implications for your portfolio, our lettings team is ready to support you.