What this means for you
The Renters’ Rights Act has officially been enacted, representing the most substantial reform to the private rental sector in decades. Receiving Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, this landmark legislation brings wide-ranging changes designed to create a fairer, more transparent and better-regulated rental market for England’s 11 million tenants and 2.3 million landlords.
At Ellis & Co, we are prepared to support landlords and tenants as these changes take effect. Our teams are well-versed in the new legislation and on hand to help you navigate the transition with clarity and assurance.
Implications for landlords
The Act rebalances landlord-tenant relationships and introduces major updates to tenancy law. This includes the abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions, the end of fixed-term tenancies, stronger repair standards and tighter controls on rent increases.
While these changes represent a major shift, landlords who already maintain high standards of compliance will find the transition smoother. Our local experts are available to explain each update and ensure you remain compliant with every new requirement.
For landlords who prefer a more hands-off approach, our Fully Managed service can handle day-to-day property management and compliance under the new legislation, while our Rent Guarantee scheme offers added reassurance that your rental income remains protected if tenants fall into arrears.
Key measures introduced by the Act
- Abolition of Section 21 evictions – landlords must now use updated Section 8 grounds for possession.
- No more fixed-term tenancies – all new tenancies become periodic, giving tenants flexibility to end tenancies with two months’ notice.
- Fairer rent rules – rent increases limited to once per year (Section 13), with tenants able to challenge excessive rises for free.
- Right to request pets – landlords must not unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request.
- Removing rental bidding – properties must be marketed at a fixed rent, ending rent bidding wars.
- Changing rules on discrimination – landlords and agents can no longer refuse applicants based on children or benefits.
- Decent Homes Standard – extended to the private sector to improve property safety and living conditions.
- Awaab’s Law – introduces strict repair timelines for serious hazards such as damp and mould (14 days to investigate, seven days to fix, and 24 hours for emergencies).
- Private Rented Sector Ombudsman – providing a fast, impartial way to resolve tenant complaints.
- Private Rented Sector Database – a new national register to help landlords demonstrate compliance and provide tenants with transparent property information.
Implementation of the new legislation
Now that the Act is law, the government will introduce the reforms in phases and is expected to release rollout details soon. Core reforms such as the end of Section 21 and tenancy reform are likely to be introduced first, followed by the new Ombudsman and PRS Database systems after a transition period.
A new chapter for the private rental sector
Government ministers have described the Act as “the most significant leap forward in renters’ rights in a generation.”
The NRLA has also stressed that the reforms should be introduced in a way that is fair and proportionate for responsible landlords.
This reform opens a new chapter for the sector, raising expectations while recognising the vital role landlords play in providing quality homes.
Get in touch with your local Ellis & Co branch for expert guidance on keeping your property compliant, protected and profitable under the new legislation.
Support from Ellis & Co
Whether you own one property or several, understanding how the Renters’ Rights Act affects your tenancies and income is essential. Our local teams are ready to explain what the new rules mean in practice and help you prepare for what’s ahead.
Request a rental review with your local Ellis & Co branch to make sure your property stays compliant and competitive. You can rely on us to keep you informed and supported throughout this period of change.
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