Renters’ Rights Act: How will it affect you?

Key changes to be aware of:

• End of Section 21 (‘no-fault’ evictions): Landlords can no longer evict tenants without a valid reason. All tenancies now rely on updated Section 8 grounds.
• Assured Periodic Tenancies: Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) have been replaced with rolling assured periodic agreements, meaning tenants can leave after giving 2 months’ notice, or less if agreed, whilst landlords must rely on statutory grounds to regain possession.
• Stronger possession grounds: Updated Section 8 grounds allow landlords to recover properties for legitimate reasons, such as selling the property or moving in, subject to specific notice periods and conditions.
• Rent increases regulated: Rent can only be increased once per year via a formal Section 13 notice, and tenants have the right to challenge excessive increases through a tribunal.
• Pet ownership rights: Tenants have the right to request permission for pets, and landlords must not unreasonably refuse.
• Rental bidding wars banned: This means landlords must not invite or accept offers above the advertised rent.
• Rent in advance restricted: Landlords cannot request or accept rent before the tenancy has been signed and upfront rent is capped at 1 month.

These reforms represent one of the biggest changes to the rental market in decades. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Lettings team on 01206 764499.