Future Renters Rights Under New UK Tenancy Laws could soon reshape how tenants rent in England, particularly under the Renters (Reform) Bill introduced in May 2023. As this important piece of legislation progresses through Parliament, tenants deserve to understand what’s changing and how these updates might affect them in real terms. If you’re concerned about how these reforms may affect you, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) is your first port of call for direct legal advice and practical help.
Key Legal Changes Affecting Future Renters Rights Under New UK Tenancy Laws
The Renters (Reform) Bill is the biggest proposed change to private renting in over three decades. One of its main aims is to tackle insecure tenancies and improve living standards across the board. If passed, these reforms will give more stability and legal backing to renters. Let’s break down the parts that matter most.
1. Abolishing Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
Perhaps the most talked-about change in the Renters (Reform) Bill is the proposed abolition of Section 21 evictions. Currently, landlords can end a tenancy without needing to give a specific reason as long as they follow the notice rules. This often leaves tenants feeling vulnerable, especially when there’s no wrongdoing on their part.
Under the new law, landlords must provide a valid reason to evict, such as rent arrears or anti-social behaviour, making it harder to lose your home unexpectedly. This is a major step in enhancing tenant security and long-term stability in privately rented homes.
2. All Assured Tenancies to Become Periodic
Another vital reform is the shift to periodic tenancies by default. That means all new tenancies would roll on month-to-month without a fixed term, giving tenants more flexibility to move without being tied down by long contracts. Landlords will still be able to ask tenants to leave with valid grounds and sufficient notice, but tenants will also have more freedom to end the tenancy themselves with two months’ notice.
3. Stronger Rights to Have Pets in Rental Homes
Until now, landlords could simply reject a pet request without explanation. Under the proposed laws, tenants will have the right to request to keep pets, and landlords must consider this reasonably. While they can still refuse in some cases, this decision must be backed by solid grounds. Crucially, landlords may require tenants to obtain pet insurance to cover potential damage.
4. Introduction of a New Property Portal and Landlord Database
The new legislation plans to establish an online property portal to ensure better regulation and transparency. Landlords must register their properties and provide accurate information, such as property safety certificates. For tenants, this gives quick access to key legal details about the property and their rights, making it easier to challenge rogue landlords.
5. A Revised Section 8 Process for Fairer Eviction Grounds
With the removal of Section 21, landlords will rely more on Section 8 to seek repossession based on specific grounds. The government intends to strengthen these procedures to protect both parties. For example, new grounds will allow landlords to evict if they intend to move in themselves or sell the property, but only after the first six months of a tenancy.
6. Rent Increase Restrictions and Tribunal Access
Landlords under the Renters (Reform) Bill must give at least two months’ notice before increasing rent and can only raise it once a year. This measure aims to limit arbitrary or excessive hikes. If tenants feel the increase is unfair, they can refer the matter to a First-tier Tribunal for independent review.
7. Improved Enforcement and Local Council Powers
To make sure rules are followed, local councils will have greater powers to fine non-compliant landlords and inspect substandard properties. The aim is to raise enforcement standards while encouraging landlords to improve poor housing conditions without delay.
What Tenants Can Expect If the Bill Passes
If Parliament passes the Renters (Reform) Bill — expected sometime in late 2024 or 2025 — tenants in England will benefit from more secure homes, greater rights, and a more balanced legal relationship with landlords. However, it’s important to stay alert and seek qualified advice, particularly during this transition period where some reforms may roll out gradually rather than all at once.
The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) is a 24/7 tenant legal helpline offering affordable, solicitor-backed help for eviction defence, disrepair, harassment, rent arrears, deposit disputes, and on-the-day court support across the UK. Membership is £10/month. Learn more at The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS).
Understanding Your Position Under Future Renters Rights Under New UK Tenancy Laws
Whether you’re a long-standing tenant or about to sign a new agreement, these changes could impact everything from how secure your home is to whether you can keep a pet. The end of fixed-term tenancies, fairer eviction rules and guaranteed rent protections all aim to make private renting fairer and more stable.
However, with legal reforms still going through parliamentary scrutiny, it’s wise not to rely on assumptions. Keep checking updates, speak to housing advice organisations, and don’t hesitate to challenge practices that feel unfair or unlawful.
Call The Tenant Protection Scheme today on 0330 633 0299. Don’t wait until it’s too late – start your protection now. For just a small monthly cost you get direct legal support from experts, with your membership active within 24 hours. Call us now to start your protection today.