Renters Reform Bill: UK Eviction & Deposit Rules

Many renters and landlords face challenges of short notice periods hidden fees and uncleartenant rules Thankfully the UK Government introduced a new Renters Reform Bill that aimsto address these challenges and make renting fairer and easier for everyone involved It sets clear rules on evictions deposits and fees which are especially designed to improvefairness and transparency Furthermore for support and practical advice you can also relyon httppropertymanagementcompanyuk which can guide you through the new rentallandscapeKey Objectives of the Renters Reform BillThe Renters Reform Bill is aimed at creating a more balanced rental system By stayingcompliant with these new rules and using Property Portfolio Management it will be easier tomanage your multiple properties efficiently and maximise returns Its primary objectivesincludeAbolition of Section 21 EvictionsOne of the most significant changes is the removal of Section 21 ldquonofaultrdquo evictions whichcurrently allow landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason Once the Bill is enactedthey will need a legitimate reason such as rent arrears or breach of tenancy to regainpossession of their property Tools such as Guaranteed Rental Payments can also helplandlords maintain a steady income while following these new rulesEnd of FixedTerm TenanciesFixedterm assured shorthold tenancies will be replaced with periodic rolling tenanciesThis gives renters more flexibility as tenancies continue month to month or week to weekwithout a fixed end date Therefore tenants will have more security and longterm stability intheir homesBan on No DSS or No Kids AdsUnder the Renters Reform Bill tenants cannot be denied housing solely because they havechildren or receive housing benefits often referred to as ldquoNo DSSrdquo discrimination Landlordsand letting agents must base their decisions on objective criteria rather than personalcharacteristics such as religion gender or family situationDecent Homes Standard All rental properties must meet minimum safety and quality standards Serious issuesincluding damp mould or other hazards must be addressed promptly within the specifiedtimeframes to protect tenantsPrivate Rented Sector DatabaseFrom late 2026 all landlords and rental properties in England will need to be listed on a newonline Private Rented Sector Database This allows tenants to check that their landlord isproperly registeredLandlord OmbudsmanLandlords will be required to register with a new landlord registration scheme while tenantswill have access to a governmentbacked redress system This ensures disputes areresolved efficiently and fairly reducing legal complexitiesPetFriendly Rentals Tenants now have the right to ask to keep pets under the new rules Landlords must reviewthese requests fairly and provide a valid reason if they decide to say noNew Possession Grounds Section 8 Landlords will need to use Section 8 grounds to regain possession of a property They canevict tenants only for specific legal reasons which protects tenants from unfair or arbitraryevictionPreparing For These New Change ReformsWhether you are a landlord or a tenant taking early steps will make the transition smootherLandlords Review tenancy agreements and update them if needed Ensure properties meet safety and maintenance standards Learn the new grounds for eviction under the Renters Reform Bill Consider registering with approved landlord schemes earlyTenants Keep records of all communications with your landlord Understand your rights under the new legislation Report repairs and property issues promptly Engage with tenant support organizations if neededConclusionThe Renters Reform Bill is a significant step toward a fairer safer and more transparentrental market While it introduces responsibilities for landlords it also strengthens the rightsof tenants to promote stability and professionalism in the housing sector Understanding theBill now allows both to adapt smoothly and take advantage of the protections it providesFrequently Asked QuestionsCan a landlord still evict a tenant without reasonNo they cant because the Act ends ldquonofaultrdquo evictions Section 21 Landlords can onlyevict tenants for specific reasons such as nonpayment of rent property damage orviolation of tenancy termsAre landlords required to register under the ActYes landlords are legally required to register with a governmentapproved scheme under thenew bill This ensures they meet legal standards and are accountable for propertymaintenance and tenant rightsHow does this Act affect tenancy deposits and feesTenancy deposits must be protected in approved schemes and upfront or hidden fees arelimited This makes renting fairer and prevents unexpected cost surprises for tenantsCan my landlord increase my rent by 2037 in the UKNo landlords cannot raise rent by any amount they like Rent increases must be fair and inline with your tenancy agreement Furthermore any increase can also be challenged if it isclearly excessiveCan my landlord refuse repairs to my homeNo they are legally required to keep the property in good condition and safe for tenants Youhave the right to request repairs and they must respond promptly