Top 20 Landlord Questions on the UK Renters Reform Bill

Essential insights for landlords on the biggest rental law changes in decades – get prepared for the Renters Reform Bill.

The Renters Reform Bill aims to introduce significant changes in landlord-tenant law in the UK. Here are 20 key questions landlords might have about the Bill:

What is the Renters Reform Bill?

• • The Renters Reform Bill is a proposed legislation in the UK that seeks to improve tenant rights and alter landlord-tenant relationships by implementing measures such as abolishing "no-fault" evictions and strengthening tenant protections.

What is Section 21, and why is it being abolished?

• • Section 21 currently allows landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason. The Bill proposes to abolish it to improve tenant security and prevent arbitrary evictions.

Will I still be able to regain possession of my property?

• • Yes, under the Bill, landlords can still regain possession, but they will need to use Section 8 grounds, which require valid reasons (such as rent arrears or property sale).

What are the new grounds for eviction under Section 8?

• • Grounds now include rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, landlord's intent to sell or move in, and repeated rent arrears.

What changes are being made to tenancy agreements?

• • Tenancies are becoming periodic by default, eliminating fixed-term leases, meaning they continue on a rolling basis until notice is given.

How will notice periods change for evictions?

• • Notice periods may be longer, especially for certain grounds under Section 8, such as rent arrears or anti-social behaviour, where notice periods could extend.

Can I increase the rent under the new rules?

• • Yes, rent increases are allowed but must follow a fair process, likely to be limited to one increase per year with adequate notice.

Will there be limits on how much I can increase the rent?

• • The Bill does not propose direct rent caps but could introduce measures for tenants to challenge unfair increases through a tribunal.

What happens if a tenant falls into arrears?

• • Landlords can pursue eviction on grounds of rent arrears under Section 8 if tenants miss payments consistently or substantially.

Will I have the right to evict tenants for anti-social behaviour?

Yes, the Bill retains anti-social behaviour as grounds for eviction, potentially with a more streamlined process.

How will the proposed changes affect short-term lets?

Short-term lets, especially under fixed terms, may be discouraged as the Bill favours long-term, periodic tenancies.

What changes are proposed regarding property standards?

Minimum standards will likely be enforced more strictly, with tenants having new avenues to report and address substandard conditions.

How will the Bill impact pet policies in rentals?

The Bill includes a default right for tenants to request to keep pets, and landlords must reasonably consider such requests, with possible limits on unreasonable refusals.

Can I request a higher deposit if a tenant has pets

Although pet deposits are likely restricted, landlords may seek pet insurance to cover additional risks associated with pets.

What role will the new Ombudsman play?

The Ombudsman will provide an independent platform for tenants to resolve complaints outside of court, which could expedite disputes on repairs, tenancy terms, and service standards.

Will I be legally required to register with the Ombudsman?

Yes, landlords may be mandated to register with the Ombudsman to ensure accountability and standardised dispute resolution.

How will the proposed property portal affect landlords

The property portal will require landlords to register properties and provide up-to-date compliance information, offering tenants greater transparency on legal standards.

Are there penalties for non-compliance with the new regulations?

Yes, non-compliance may incur penalties, which could include fines, restrictions on letting properties, and other sanctions to ensure adherence

How can I stay updated on the Renters Reform Bill’s progress?

Regular updates can be accessed through official government channels, landlord associations, and legal advisory services to keep informed about implementation dates and compliance requirements.

When is the Renters Reform Bill expected to become law?

The timeline is subject to parliamentary processes, but landlords should prepare for phased implementation once it passes, likely over the next 1–2 years.

These questions cover essential concerns, helping landlords understand how the Bill will affect their rights, responsibilities, and property management practices.

 

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