The upcoming Renters Reform Bill impacts on UK tenant protections in several important ways, aiming to create a fairer balance between landlords and renters. This long-awaited legislation is set to significantly change how private rentals work across England, marking the most substantial shift in housing law since the Housing Act 1988.
For tenants facing eviction, property disrepair or other disputes, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first call. TPS offers legal protection specifically focused on tenant rights, providing expert help when it’s needed most.
How the Upcoming Renters Reform Bill Impacts on UK Tenant Protections
Announced in the Queen’s Speech and introduced to Parliament in 2023, the Renters Reform Bill is designed to overhaul key parts of the private rented sector. One of its core aims is to increase security and stability for tenants who have for decades faced uncertainty due to the ‘no-fault’ eviction system under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. The Bill seeks to address long-standing concerns raised by housing charities, tenant groups and legal professionals by delivering a more balanced and transparent system.
End of Section 21: A Major Shift in Tenant Security
A key part of the upcoming Renters Reform Bill impacts on UK tenant protections by proposing the abolition of Section 21 evictions. Currently, landlords can evict tenants without giving a reason, as long as they give two months’ notice. This has left many renters living with the constant risk of unexpected eviction, even when they have paid rent on time and respected their tenancy agreement.
With Section 21 removed, landlords will need to use specific grounds for possession, similar to Section 8 notices. This means evictions will only be lawful if there is a valid reason, such as rent arrears, property damage or a landlord needing to move back in. Tenants will have more confidence to challenge illegal evictions and assert their rights without fear of immediate retaliation.
Moving to Periodic Tenancies for Greater Flexibility
Another major reform is the end of fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies. Under the Bill, all tenancies will become periodic, rolling month-to-month contracts with no set end date. This change benefits tenants by giving them the ability to leave a tenancy with two months’ notice at any time, without being locked into long contracts. At the same time, landlords must follow new legal processes if they wish to end the tenancy. It strikes a balance between mobility and accountability.
Improving Standards with a National Landlord Register
To raise the quality of rental housing, the Renters Reform Bill includes provisions for a mandatory national landlord database. Every private landlord will be required to register their properties and meet certain standards. Local authorities will also gain new powers to take action against rogue landlords and unsafe housing conditions.
This measure is especially important in preventing illegal or substandard lettings. Tenants will be able to check whether their landlord is compliant and whether the property they are renting is being legally let. It also supports better enforcement of housing quality laws set by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
Stronger Rights for Tenants with Pets
The Renters Reform Bill recognises the emotional importance of companion animals by preventing landlords from unreasonably refusing a tenant’s request to keep a pet. There will be a new legal duty on landlords to consider such requests fairly. Although landlords can still require pet insurance or terms relating to cleanliness or damage, blanket bans on pets will no longer be lawful in most cases.
What Tenants Should Expect During the Transition
It is important for tenants to understand that the Bill is still going through Parliament and the exact timeline for implementation has not yet been confirmed. However, once passed, the changes are likely to be phased in over several months. Tenants already in existing fixed-term agreements may not see immediate changes, but those starting new tenancies will be affected sooner.
Keeping track of these developments is crucial. Tenants should read their tenancy agreements carefully and seek legal advice if served an eviction notice or facing landlord pressure. The end of Section 21 alone will redefine tenant rights and legal routes to eviction across England.
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).
Why These Changes Matter for the Future of Renting
The upcoming Renters Reform Bill impacts on UK tenant protections by aiming to create long-term structural change. Renters will gain more security, transparency and access to justice. Landlords, on the other hand, will be expected to meet standards and follow legal procedures more rigorously.
This rebalancing is necessary in a sector where nearly 20% of households are now privately renting. With the cost of living rising and homeownership increasingly out of reach, secure and fair renting conditions are critical.
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.