Updated Insights on the Renters' Rights Bill – August 2025 Update
The Renters’ Rights Bill (RRB) is set to bring sweeping changes to the private rental sector. With the bill having already passed the House of Commons, it’s progressing quickly and is expected to become law in Spring 2026.
While the bill introduces added rights for tenants, it also retains important protections for landlords. As your trusted experts, we’re keeping you up to date every step of the way.
What’s Changing
The bill includes major updates such as:
- Abolition of Section 21 and end of Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs)
- Tenancies will be periodic by default, with tenants able to give 2 months’ notice
- Rent collection limited to one month in advance
- Rent increases capped at once per year via a Section 13 notice
- Tenants can challenge above-market rent via the First Tier Tribunal
- Advertised rent must match the final agreed rent
- Pet requests cannot be unreasonably refused
- No discrimination against tenants with children or on benefits
- Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law will apply to private rentals
- Landlord Redress Scheme and PRS database registration will be required
- Written tenancy agreements will become mandatory
Recent Amendments to Note
As Parliament breaks for the summer, several key developments have emerged:
- Section 8 Re-Letting Period: Originally set at 12 months, an amendment may reduce this to 6 months
- Pet Insurance Shift: The original ban on pet insurance requirements is shifting towards allowing pet-specific deposits (still under review)
- Landlord Ombudsman: A new redress service will be launched to support landlords as Section 21 ends
- Student Lets and HMOs: Landlords to be able to serve notice between June and September for better academic year tenancy management
When Will It Take Effect?
The Bill enters its next stage in September 2025, when the House of Lords and House of Commons begin the ‘ping pong’ phase — reviewing and finalising amendments. Once both Houses agree, Royal Assent is expected by the end of 2025 or early 2026. If on schedule, the legislation should come into force by Q2 of 2026.
How Will It Affect You?
- Most landlords will be affected unless letting to companies or charging over £100k/year
- Tenancies will no longer have fixed end dates - they roll on until valid notice is served
- Landlords regaining possession must give evidence and wait 8 months before serving notice, with a 12-month re-letting ban (or 6, if amended)
- Rent must be paid monthly only (no advance payments allowed)
- Student and overseas tenancies are not exempt
- Rent increases must follow proper notice and cannot exceed the advertised price
- Penalties for non-compliance can reach £7,000 for first offences and £40,000 for serious/repeat breaches
We are here to help
At tlc Estate Agents, we are already preparing for what’s ahead. We have guided our clients through every major reform to date and we will continue to offer trusted advice, clear communication, and full support as the Renters Rights Bill takes shape.
You can count on us to keep you informed and protected.
