The Renters Rights Bill has reached its final parliamentary stage. The core reforms have been agreed, but some details and the exact timetable for implementation are still being resolved. Below is a clear summary of the most recent developments and what they mean for landlords in Kensington and Chelsea. Click here for full details on the bill.
Key Developments
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Final Parliamentary Stage
The Bill has moved through the final debates in both Houses of Parliament. Most amendments have now been settled, leaving only technical details to be confirmed. -
Royal Assent Imminent
The Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent within weeks. At that point, it will officially become law. -
Implementation Expected in 2026
The law will not take effect immediately. Secondary regulations and guidance must be prepared first. The commencement date is expected in the early part of 2026. -
Clarified Amendments
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Landlords will no longer be able to require tenants to take out separate pet insurance as a condition for keeping pets.
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Tenancies that already require rent to be paid in advance will not need to be altered immediately.
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Provisions for student housing have been clarified to ensure smoother operation.
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Transitional arrangements will apply for landlords who have already issued possession notices before the law comes into effect.
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Areas Still to Watch
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The exact date when the reforms will apply has not yet been fixed. Some elements may be introduced in phases.
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How possession notices already in progress will be treated under the transitional rules is still being finalised.
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Details on how local authorities will enforce the new rules and how the new Ombudsman will operate are being developed.
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Specific exemptions for student housing and short lets are still being refined.
Steps Landlords Should Take Now
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Review tenancy agreements so they can transition smoothly to open ended periodic tenancies.
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Audit properties to ensure they meet current and future standards, with particular attention to safety, maintenance and energy efficiency.
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Consider the impact of annual rent increase limits and prepare to evidence fair market rents.
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Keep accurate and up to date compliance records in readiness for the new national property portal.
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Seek advice before serving any possession notices to ensure they remain valid through the transitional period.
What This Means for Kensington and Chelsea Landlords
The Renters Rights Bill is now almost law. The direction of travel is clear and the headline reforms are settled. For landlords in Kensington and Chelsea, the key is preparation. By acting now, you can adapt confidently and avoid disruption when the new rules commence.
At tlc Estate Agents we are already preparing our landlords for the changes. Our role is to ensure you remain compliant, protect your income and continue to enjoy the rewards of property investment. Contact our lettings team today to discuss how we can help you prepare for the Renters Rights Bill and safeguard your property wealth.
