The Future UK Renters Reform Bill Impact on Tenant Rights is a topic gaining attention as the government continues shaping new housing policy. With the Bill expected to pass in Parliament by late 2024, tenants across England could soon see some of the most significant legal changes to private renting in decades. Understanding what this means could help renters prepare—and assert their rights more confidently. If you are facing an issue now or want to be ready, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) is your first route to expert legal help—available 24/7.
How Will the Future UK Renters Reform Bill Impact on Tenant Rights?
The proposed reforms, outlined in the government’s 2019 and 2022 white papers, aim to rebalance power between landlords and tenants. If enacted as currently proposed, the Bill will introduce stronger security for renters, improve standards, and increase the accountability of landlords. Here are some of the key changes it could bring to tenant rights.
1. Ending “No-Fault” Evictions under Section 21
Perhaps the most transformative change is the abolition of Section 21 evictions. Currently, landlords can ask tenants to leave without giving a reason once the fixed term ends, provided they give two months’ notice. The new legislation would remove this mechanism entirely. Instead, landlords would need a valid legal reason to evict—aligned with updated grounds under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988. Tenants could benefit from longer-term stability, particularly in competitive rental markets such as London, Manchester and Bristol.
2. Strengthening Grounds for Possession
To maintain fairness, the Bill will also update Section 8 eviction grounds. Landlords would still be able to recover possession in certain cases, like antisocial behaviour or rent arrears, but these grounds will require clearer evidence and proportionality. Additionally, new grounds are expected for landlords wanting to sell or move into the property themselves. This aims to balance landlord interests while protecting tenants from misuse of the system.
3. Introduction of a Standardised Tenancy Structure
The current distinction between Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) and Assured Tenancies is expected to end. All new tenancies will become periodic by default, with no fixed term. Tenants would not need to wait six months before giving notice, and landlords would need legitimate reasons—supported by law—to regain possession. This simplifies tenancy law and gives tenants more flexibility without the fear of arbitrary contract lengths.
4. Landlord Register and Property Portal
To improve enforcement and transparency, the Bill proposes a new online “Property Portal.” This register would list landlords and the condition of their properties. Tenants could easily check whether their landlord complies with safety and legal standards. Additionally, local authorities would find it easier to identify and enforce against rogue landlords. This offers tenants better access to lawful renting and safer homes.
5. Strengthened Rights Around Pets and Discrimination
Under the Bill, landlords must consider requests for pets reasonably and cannot simply say no without a valid reason. The aim is to reduce blanket bans on pet ownership. Moreover, proposals linked to the Bill may target discrimination—for example, banning “No DSS” policies, which can unlawfully exclude those on housing benefits. These changes would help ensure fairer access to private renting across different housing groups.
6. Rent Increases Must Be Justified and Properly Notified
The Bill is likely to tighten rules around rent increases, requiring landlords to give at least two months’ notice and use the formal Section 13 procedure. Tenants will also retain the right to challenge unreasonable increases through the First-tier Tribunal. This could reduce sudden or excessive rent hikes, giving tenants more predictability over their housing costs.
7. Local Authority Powers and Tenant Enforcement
Councils would be given stronger enforcement powers, allowing quicker and more consistent action against landlords breaking the law. This may include increased fines, entry rights for inspections, and real-time data from the landlord register. In effect, tenants will benefit from a more proactive housing enforcement regime, particularly in areas where poor housing standards persist.
What Tenants Can Do to Prepare
Although the Bill is not yet law, many provisions are likely to pass in some form during 2024. Renters should regularly check GOV.UK for updates or speak with local housing advisors. If you’re signing a new tenancy agreement this year, keep copies of all documents and be aware of your rights under the existing Housing Act 1988 and the 2004 Housing Act. Being informed now will help you make stronger decisions when the law changes.
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).
In summary, the Future UK Renters Reform Bill Impact on Tenant Rights could empower tenants with greater stability, protection against unfair evictions, more transparent dealings with landlords, and better housing quality. While consultation continues, staying updated and legally protected is crucial.
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