As of 27th October 2025 The Renters Rights Bill is now the Renters Rights Act having been given Royal Assent after it’s recent, well publicised, passage through parliament. The new act will bring substantial changes to the private rented sector and has been described as the most radical in over 40 years.
Although the law is now enacted it may be some time before the various elements of the act come into force, potentially arriving at different times when the government deem they and the lettings industry is ready. An announcement is expected in the coming weeks as to the likely start date for the new act but the current consensus appears to expect an implementation period of around 6 months meaning a likely “go live” date in April 2026.
The final key elements of the new Act are:
End of so-called ‘no-fault’ evictions: The measure abolishes Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, which allows landlords to evict tenants without a stated reason
Replacement of fixed-term tenancies: All tenancies will be converted to a single, “rolling” periodic tenancy model. Tenants can end these with two months’ notice, and landlords will rely on specific legal grounds for possession
Ban on rent bidding wars: Landlords and agents are prohibited from soliciting or accepting offers of rent that are higher than the initial advertised price;
Annual rent increases: Rent can only be increased once per year, and a minimum of two months’ notice must be given. Tenants can appeal to a tribunal if they believe the increase is unfair
Discrimination protection: Landlords will be legally prevented from discriminating against prospective tenants based on whether they have children or receive benefits
Decent Homes Standard: The measure applies the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector, ensuring properties meet minimum quality requirements
New landlord database: A national register of landlords and their properties will be created to help both tenants and landlords
Pet requests: Tenants will have the right to request a pet in their rental property, and landlords cannot unreasonably deny this request
Whilst we eagerly await the final details of the act, and how it will impact both landlords and agents, we have already implemented many changes to our systems and procedures to ensure a seamless transition of the individual elements of the act. As Liverpool City Centres’ leading letting agent, managing around 700 properties we will continue to update our landlords and tenants with any updates on the new act when released by the government.
