Renters’ Rights Bill set to become law as it heads for Royal Assent
The Renters’ Rights Bill is on the verge of becoming law after passing its final stage in the Commons, with Royal Assent expected imminently.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook confirmed the government will outline an implementation plan soon but did not specify dates. Key reforms include the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions, a ban on fixed-term tenancies (ie making all tenancies periodic) and new rules preventing landlords from unreasonably refusing pets.
Pennycook, who led the bill’s passage, said it is “in touching distance of becoming law” and promised a smooth transition for landlords and tenants alike. He emphasised that the reforms will not “destabilise the rental market” or harm rental supply.
The new system will apply to both new and existing tenancies, which will automatically convert to periodic agreements once the law takes effect.
However, Shadow Housing Secretary James Cleverley warned the legislation could be “counter-productive,” driving landlords out of the market and pushing up rents. He also called for urgent court reform to ensure eviction cases can be handled efficiently under the new framework.
In a last-minute adjustment, the government confirmed that shared owners (those who part-own and part-rent their homes) will be exempt from the 12-month re-letting ban, following concerns the rule would unfairly impact them.
Industry reaction has been largely one of cautious acceptance. William Reeve, CEO of Goodlord, said the bill is “finally on its way onto the statute books,” predicting implementation between April and June 2026.
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, described it as “the most significant reform of the private rented sector in decades,” urging landlords and agents to prepare now for the sweeping changes ahead.
Comment from Assured Protect - not all letting agents are ready, even now, for the affects of the new legislation which will impact them and their landlord clients. Landlords are also not being properly advised and kept up to date. We know this because we have been making calls and speaking with a lot of agents, property investors and landlords, and also speaking with letting agent networks and property groups. With this in mind, our team of advisers are fully available via our contact page to offer help, guidance and advice and support, especially in the matters of how to make sure that their property businesses are properly financially protected.
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