Tenant’s Rights Under the Renters' Rights Bill (2025)
The Renters’ Rights Bill 2025 represents a significant development in the regulation of the private rental sector in England. It introduces a range of measures designed to enhance security, fairness, and living standards for tenants. This summary outlines the principal changes and how they may affect both current and prospective tenants.
The Key Rights for Tenants Under the New Renters Rights Bill
Abolition of ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
- The Bill formally abolishes Section 21 evictions, meaning that landlords may no longer terminate a tenancy without providing a valid, legal reason.
- Landlords must now cite a valid legal ground to regain possession of their property.
- Tenants who meet their obligations under the tenancy agreement are entitled to remain in their homes without fear of arbitrary eviction.
Replacement of Fixed-Term Tenancies
- All new and existing tenancies will become periodic (rolling) agreements, replacing fixed-term contracts.
- Tenants may terminate their tenancy by providing two months’ notice at any time.
- Landlords must demonstrate a legitimate ground for possession should they wish to end the tenancy.
Revised Notice Periods for Eviction
- The legislation introduces enhanced notice periods for landlords seeking possession, particularly in cases where the property is to be sold or occupied by the landlord or their family.
- The notice period varies depending on the grounds for eviction, particularly when the property is being sold or reclaimed for personal use.
- This change ensures tenants have adequate time to secure alternative accommodation.
Regulation of Rent Increases
- Rent increases are limited to once per year and must follow a formal notice process.
- Tenants may challenge excessive increases through a tribunal, particularly where such increases appear intended to force them out unlawfully.
Improved Housing Standards
- All rental properties must comply with the Decent Homes Standard. This includes being free from serious hazards, in a reasonable state of good repair, and equipped with modern facilities.
- Local authorities have enhanced powers to enforce these standards, and a new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman will handle tenant complaints.
Simplified Tenancy Agreements
- Tenancy agreements will be standardised and written in plain language.
- Simplified tenancy agreements will reduce the risk of hidden or unfair terms and ensures tenants understand their rights and responsibilities from the outset.
Enhanced Protection Against Discrimination
- Landlords may not discriminate against tenants based on their receipt of benefits or family status.
- This measure promotes fairness and equal access to housing.
Limitations on Advance Rent Payments
- Landlords may request no more than one month’s rent in advance, in addition to a security deposit.
- This provision aims to reduce financial barriers to accessing rental accommodation.
Stronger Legal Support for Tenants
- Tenants will have improved access to legal remedies for unfair treatment or substandard housing.
- Local councils and advocacy organisations will receive additional resources to support renters in asserting their rights.
How These Changes Benefit You
More Stability
More Transparency
Better Living Conditions
Stronger Legal Protections
More Stability
More Transparency
Better Living Conditions
Stronger Legal Protections
To stay informed about your rights, check out these related guides
An end to Section 21, no-fault evictions
Enhanced Protection against discrimination for Tenants
Renters Rights Bill FAQs for Tenants
These are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Renters' Reform Bill by Tenants and those looking to move into rented accommodation.
The repeal of Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 signifies the end of “no-fault” evictions. Landlords are no longer permitted to terminate a tenancy without providing a valid legal reason. This reform enhances security for tenants and aims to prevent retaliatory evictions.
No. Under the new legislation, landlords must cite a legitimate ground for possession, such as the intention to sell the property, move in themselves, or address serious rent arrears.
All tenancies will now be periodic by default. This means:
- The tenancy continues indefinitely until the tenant chooses to leave or the landlord regains possession through lawful means.
- Tenants are required to provide a minimum of two months’ notice when vacating the property.
This structure offers greater flexibility and reduces the risk of being bound by long-term contracts that may no longer suit the tenant’s circumstances.
No. Rent increases are restricted to once per year and must be reasonable and consistent with prevailing market rates.
- A formal process must be followed.
- Tenants must receive at least two months’ notice of any proposed increase.
Tenants retain the right to challenge excessive rent increases through a tribunal.
No. The legislation strengthens protections against retaliatory evictions. Tenants who report substandard conditions are protected from eviction on that basis.
Landlords must provide credible evidence of their intention to sell or occupy the property. Tenants will be afforded additional time to secure alternative accommodation, thereby preventing misuse of these grounds.
Under the new periodic tenancy system, tenants may terminate their tenancy at any time by providing a minimum of two months’ notice.
In most circumstances, landlords must provide at least four months’ notice and must have a valid legal reason for seeking possession, such as selling the property, moving in, or addressing serious breaches of the tenancy agreement.
The bill introduces minimum housing standards and establishes a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman. Tenants may lodge complaints and expect a fair and binding resolution. The legislation also ensures that tenants can report poor conditions without fear of eviction.
- Familiarise themselves with their rights under the new law.
- Maintain records of rent payments and communications with their landlord.
- Report unsafe or substandard conditions without hesitation.
- Stay informed as the bill progresses toward full implementation, anticipated in summer 2025.