Landlord Reforms Approved in England, Granting Renters Increased Rights

A landmark bill granting expanded rights to renters in England was formally approved today, marking the most significant overhaul of the rental system in over three decades and potentially impacting millions of households.

The new legislation shifts rental agreements to a “periodic” or rolling basis, eliminating fixed-term contracts of 12 or 24 months. Tenants will now be able to remain in a property indefinitely, providing they adhere to the terms of the tenancy, and can leave with two months’ notice. Landlords seeking to sell or reclaim a property will be restricted from doing so within the first 12 months of a tenancy, and will then be required to provide four months’ notice. This change aims to address concerns about tenants feeling trapped in unsuitable properties.

The bill also addresses issues of unfair practices, banning “bidding wars” for properties and establishing a clear, set asking price. Evictions will be more regulated, with landlords needing a valid reason – such as property damage, antisocial behavior, or significant rent arrears (increased from two to three months) – to pursue eviction, and tenants will be protected from eviction simply for requesting repairs. A “Decent Homes Standard” will be implemented, alongside “Awaab’s Law,” requiring landlords to address hazards like mold promptly, named for two-year-old Awaab Ishak whose death highlighted dangerous housing conditions. For more information on tenant rights, visit Shelter.

While welcomed by tenant advocacy groups like the Renters Reform Coalition, whose director Tom Darling said the changes would give tenants “real security in their house,” the reforms have raised concerns among landlords. Chris Norris, chief policy officer of the National Residential Landlords Association, stated landlords are feeling “nervous” and seeking further clarification from the government, fearing increased risk and potential strain on the court system. The changes come as average UK monthly private rents increased by 5.5%, to £1,354, in the 12 months to September 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Government officials will announce the specific timeline and implementation details for each aspect of the Renters Reform Bill in the coming weeks.