The UK’s rental market is on the brink of major change. The long-awaited Renters (Reform) Bill, which promises to overhaul the private rental sector in England, is finally nearing its final stages in Parliament. Here’s everything renters, landlords, and housing professionals need to know about the latest developments and when these reforms are expected to take effect.
What is the Renters (Reform) Bill?
First introduced in May 2023, the Renters (Reform) Bill is designed to rebalance the rights of tenants and landlords, improve the quality of rental housing, and strengthen protections for tenants.
Key measures in the bill include:
- Abolishing ‘no-fault’ Section 21 evictions, which currently allow landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason.
- Moving to a single system of periodic tenancies, meaning tenants can leave with two months' notice at any time, and landlords must follow specific grounds for eviction.
- Establishing a new Privately Rented Property Portal to help tenants access key property information and landlord compliance.
- Introducing a new Ombudsman for private landlords to help resolve disputes outside of court.
- Enhancing rights for tenants to request pets in rented homes, with landlords unable to unreasonably refuse.
What’s the latest update?
As of August 2025, the Renters (Reform) Bill has completed its passage through the House of Commons and is currently under review in the House of Lords. While the process has been slower than many expected, the bill is moving forward steadily.
A number of amendments have been debated in recent months, including:
- Delaying the abolition of Section 21 until the court system is deemed ready to handle increased eviction cases.
- Additional clarity on student housing and how the reforms will apply to fixed-term tenancies in that sector.
- Strengthening protections for victims of domestic abuse, ensuring they can end tenancies swiftly and safely.
When will the reforms be implemented?
The government has indicated that the bill is expected to receive Royal Assent by late 2025, with implementation likely phased throughout 2026.
Here’s the anticipated timeline (subject to change):
- Late 2025: Royal Assent (bill becomes law).
- Early to mid-2026: Initial rollout of reforms, likely starting with the creation of the new Ombudsman and Property Portal.
- Mid to late 2026: Abolition of Section 21 evictions and full shift to periodic tenancies (pending court reforms).
The phased approach is meant to give local councils, landlords, and tenants time to adjust and comply with the new legal framework.
What should renters do now?
If you're a renter in England, here’s what you can do to stay ahead:
- Stay informed: follow updates from trusted housing organisations and government announcements.
- Check your tenancy agreement: understand your rights and how the changes may impact you.
- Keep records: maintain documentation of any disputes, repairs, or communications with your landlord.
Landlords are also advised to start preparing for compliance, particularly with the proposed changes to tenancy structures and the upcoming landlord registration system.
Contact us today on 01616 966 229 to speak with our specialist solicitors.
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