Recent Rental Law Changes
The latest changes to rental legislation including the Renters Reform Bill, Section 21 abolition timeline, and what it means for tenants.
The Renters (Reform) Bill
The most significant change to private renting in a generation. The bill abolishes Section 21 "no fault" evictions, meaning landlords will need a valid reason (such as rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or wanting to sell/move in) to end a tenancy. The bill also introduces a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman, a property portal (national landlord register), and the right for tenants to request pets. Implementation is being phased in throughout 2025–2026.
Section 21 abolition timeline
Section 21 abolition is tied to court reform — the government committed to not abolishing it until the courts can handle increased Section 8 possession claims efficiently. A new digital court process is being piloted. Current expectation is that Section 21 will be fully abolished by late 2025 or early 2026 for new tenancies, with existing tenancies following 6–12 months later. Check current status as this timeline may shift.
Decent Homes Standard
For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard (previously only for social housing) is being extended to the private rented sector. This sets minimum standards for the condition of rented homes, including freedom from serious hazards, reasonable state of repair, reasonably modern facilities, and adequate thermal comfort. Landlords will need to meet these standards or face enforcement action.
Rent increases
Under the new framework, rent increases will be limited to once per year (currently possible every 6 months on periodic tenancies). Tenants will be able to challenge excessive increases at a tribunal, and the tribunal will only be able to determine the market rate — not set it higher. The aim is to prevent rent increases being used to effectively evict tenants by pricing them out.
Pets in rented properties
Tenants will have the right to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords will not be able to unreasonably refuse. If they do refuse, they will need to provide a written reason within 42 days. Landlords can require pet insurance to cover potential damage. This right applies from the start of the tenancy.
What tenants should do now
Keep records of all communications with your landlord in writing. Know whether you have a Section 21 notice and its validity requirements (proper deposit protection, valid gas safety certificate, EPC provided). If you receive an eviction notice, seek advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice immediately. Stay informed about implementation dates as the new protections come into force.