Renters Reform Bill - The Story So Far

The Renters' Rights Bill, introduced to Parliament on 11 September 2024, proposes significant reforms to the private rental sector in England. These changes aim to enhance tenant protections and clarify landlord responsibilities. Key provisions include:

1. Abolition of 'No-Fault' Evictions: The Bill seeks to eliminate Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, preventing landlords from terminating tenancies without providing a valid reason. This measure is intended to offer tenants greater security in their homes.

2. Introduction of Periodic Tenancies: All tenancies would transition to periodic agreements, effectively ending fixed-term contracts. This change allows tenants to remain in their homes indefinitely, with landlords required to provide specific grounds for possession to regain the property.

3. Strengthened Grounds for Possession: The Bill outlines clearer and expanded grounds under Section 8 for landlords to repossess properties, including scenarios such as:

• Intending to sell the property.
• Moving in close family members.
• Addressing tenant fault, such as anti-social behaviour or rent arrears. Landlords must provide a minimum of four months' notice for evictions related to selling the property or housing family members.

4. Regulation of Rent Increases: Landlords would be permitted to increase rent only once per year, with a minimum two-month notice period. Tenants would have the right to challenge excessive rent increases through a tribunal, ensuring adjustments align with market rates.

5. Prohibition of Discriminatory Practices: The Bill aims to prevent discrimination against tenants based on:

• Receiving benefits.
• Having children. This measure ensures equal access to rental properties for all applicants.

6. Right to Keep Pets: Tenants would have the right to request permission to keep pets, which landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. Landlords may require tenants to obtain pet insurance to cover potential property damage.

7. Establishment of a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman: A mandatory ombudsman scheme would be introduced for all landlords, providing a platform for tenants to resolve disputes without resorting to the court system.

8. Creation of a Private Rented Sector Database: The Bill proposes the development of a database to monitor landlord compliance and assist local authorities in enforcing standards within the private rented sector.

9. Implementation of the Decent Homes Standard: Private rental properties would be required to meet the Decent Homes Standard, ensuring residences are safe, warm, and in good repair. This standard, previously applicable only to social housing, would now extend to the private sector.

10. Ban on Rent Bidding Wars: Landlords and agents would be prohibited from encouraging or accepting rent bids above the advertised price, aiming to prevent practices that drive up rental costs.

These proposed reforms are designed to provide tenants with greater security and stability while ensuring landlords can effectively manage their properties within a fair regulatory framework. The Bill is currently under parliamentary consideration, with potential enactment anticipated by mid-2025.