The biggest changes to landlord regulations in a generation are coming – ensure you're compliant and protect your rental income.
Are you ready for the Renters' Rights Act?
The UK government is introducing sweeping reforms that will affect all landlords. From the removal of Section 21 to mandatory property registration, staying ahead of these changes is crucial. Our expert team is here to guide you through the updates and help you remain compliant while maximising your rental returns.
Major Changes Are Coming
On 28th October 2025, the Renters’ Rights Bill was passed into law. The incoming changes under the new Acl will mean more complexity and compliance for landlords. Some of the main topics are explained in real detail in articles across our website. These articles will be updated as more information on the various changes is announced.
- Fixed-Term Tenancies Abolished → AST replaced with periodic tenancies.
- Section 21 Removed → No-fault evictions scrapped.
- Rent Control Changes → Restrictions on increases.
- Decent Homes Standard → Stricter maintenance rules.
- New Pet Policies → Easier for tenants to request pets.
- Landlord Registration & Ombudsman Requirement.
Fixed-Term Tenancies Are Disappearing
The government is replacing fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) with a new system of periodic tenancies.
- Landlords can no longer issue fixed-term tenancy agreements.
- All new tenancies will be rolling periodic agreements.
- Tenants can leave at any time with two months' notice.
Goodbye to Section 21
Section 21 of the Housing Act allowed landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason. This will no longer be possible.
Key Changes:
- Landlords will have to provide a valid legal reason for eviction.
- Evictions must follow Section 8 rules, which outline specific grounds.
- Tenants will have greater security and cannot be removed without just cause.
Stricter Section 8 Evictions
Stricter Rules & Longer Notice Periods. Some of the rules for evictions under Section 8 are changing. Landlords face stricter notice periods and clearer grounds for possession.
Key Changes:
- Tenants must be at least 3 months in rent arrears.
- The notice period for rent arrears is increasing from 2 weeks to 4 weeks.
- Stronger grounds for possession based on anti-social behaviour.
- More structured legal processes to protect tenants.
Decent Homes Are Standard
New Minimum Requirements for Rental Properties. Stricter regulations will apply to rental homes. Landlords must meet higher standards for property conditions, or they risk penalties.
Key Changes:
- Stronger rules on damp, mould, and insulation.
- Heating and ventilation systems must meet efficiency standards.
- Increased penalties for non-compliance with safety requirements.
Changes to Pet Rules & Tenant Discrimination
There will be changes to how landlords handle pet requests and tenant rights.
Key Changes:
- Landlords will not be able to ‘unreasonably’ refuse pets.
- Stronger anti-discrimination protections for tenants with disabilities.
- Adjustments to tenancy agreements may be required to comply with new rules.
Landlord Ombudsman & PRS Portal Registration
Mandatory Registration for ALL Landlords. New regulations will require all landlords to register their properties and join an official redress scheme.
Key Changes:
- Every landlord will have to register each rental property.
- Membership in the Landlord Ombudsman scheme will be mandatory.
- ispute resolution processes will be formalised within the ombudsman framework.
Maximum Civil Penalties Increased
Fines for Non-Compliance Increased to £40,000 Councils can already fine a landlord up to £30,000 without having to go to court. The Renters’ Rights Act is raising this to £40,000 and extending the types of non-compliance that can be penalised via civil penalties.
Key Changes:
- The maximum civil penalty will be raised from £30,000 to £40,000.
- Councils will be able to issue civil penalties for illegal evictions – currently these can only be prosecuted in court..
New Rules on Rent Increases – Stay Profitable While Staying Compliant
Key Changes to Rent Increases
Under the new Act, new regulations will limit when and how landlords can raise rent.
Currently, there are three ways landlords can make a rent increase:
- 1. A ‘rent review’ clause can be written into the tenancy agreement.
- If both parties agree, the rent can be increased at any point. This is most commonly done by signing a new tenancy agreement or a memorandum at renewal
- A statutory notice (Section 13, currently Form 4) can be served once in any 12-month period, giving the tenants two months’ notice of the increase.
Get your FREE Renters’ Rights Health Check
We've been working hard to ensure our landlord's stay compliant with the incoming Renters' Rights Act, with over 2,400 of our staff being trained by industry experts Propertymark. Our Renters' Rights Health Check covers; tenancy documentation, deposit compliance, safety certificates and legal standards, property condition & repairs, licensing and maximising your revenue. Change can be daunting, but if you have any questions call on us.
What our customers say
Many local property owners have recognised that our accurate house valuations, vast market experience of selling and letting, along with our bespoke approach to property marketing make a real difference.
Don't just take our word for it, hear from the people who matter most - our property selling and letting clients! Read what they have to say about their free property valuation and their experience selling with The Acorn Group estate agents.
Read more of our latest reviews here