The New Renters Reform Housing Act Implications for Tenants are significant and will dramatically reshape renting rights across England. Introduced as part of the long-awaited Renters (Reform) Bill, this legislation aims to give private tenants stronger legal protections, create more secure housing arrangements, and balance landlord-tenant relationships more fairly.
For tenants worried about how these reforms will affect their rights, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) offers a trusted first point of contact for legal support. Whether you’re facing eviction, disrepair, or need advice about the transition, TPS provides affordable, solicitor-backed protection tailored to renters across England.
Key Changes Under the New Renters Reform Housing Act
One of the most notable changes is the proposed abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions. As it stands, landlords can evict tenants at the end of a tenancy without giving a specific reason, provided they follow the correct notice period. When the Act passes, however, landlords will need to provide a valid legal reason to terminate a tenancy, such as rent arrears or wanting to sell the property. This change will significantly improve tenant security.
Another major reform is the creation of a periodic tenancy model. This replaces fixed-term tenancies and allows tenants to give two months’ notice to leave a property at any time, offering more flexibility. In return, landlords can only end the tenancy for legitimate reasons defined by law, offering both sides greater transparency and legal clarity.
Besides structural changes to tenancy agreements, the Act will also introduce a mandatory Ombudsman for private landlords. This body will offer tenants a formal route to challenge unfair treatment without going to court. Additionally, all landlords will need to register their properties under a new Property Portal, increasing accountability and improving enforcement.
New Renters Reform Housing Act Implications for Tenants with Pets and Disrepair
The Act also contains provisions that make it easier for tenants to keep pets. While landlords can still raise objections, they must provide a valid reason in writing within 42 days of a pet request. Tenants may need to obtain renters’ insurance for pets, but landlords will no longer have blanket authority to deny pets without explanation.
In terms of living conditions, the new bill takes a firmer stance on property standards. It strengthens enforcement of existing obligations under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. Local councils will retain powers to address substandard housing, while the expansion of landlord registration will allow for more consistent monitoring of responsibilities related to repairs and property upkeep.
The reforms also echo recommendations from the 2019 Regulation of Property Agents (RoPA) report, pushing for higher standards in lettings practice. For example, letting agents will be expected to meet regulatory compliance checks, and illegal fees to tenants will remain banned under the Tenant Fees Act 2019.
How These Changes Affect Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Taken together, the New Renters Reform Housing Act Implications for Tenants are largely positive. Renters will have more control over how long they stay in a property and greater confidence that they won’t be evicted without cause. For tenants dealing with poor living conditions or reluctant landlords, the reforms offer more direct legal routes for complaint and resolution.
However, it’s important for tenants to understand that while these protections increase their rights, they must also remain compliant with tenancy responsibilities. This includes paying rent on time, respecting the property, and replying promptly to reasonable landlord requests, such as scheduled inspections or maintenance access.
Additionally, while Section 21 is set to be abolished, new grounds for eviction—including anti-social behaviour and repeated rent arrears—will be strengthened. This means tenants must remain aware of what constitutes a breach under the new legislation to avoid lawful eviction.
Preparing for the New Renters Reform Housing Act Implications for Tenants
Although the Renters (Reform) Bill is currently making its way through Parliament, key elements are expected to come into force in stages. The government has indicated that initial implementation will begin six months after Royal Assent, with follow-up changes introduced over the next 12 months.
Tenants should start preparing by understanding what type of tenancy they hold and how it will transition to the new periodic model. Keeping written records of all communications with landlords—particularly about repairs, notice periods, or deposit issues—is also essential.
If your landlord serves a notice or makes a claim that seems unfair, knowing where to turn for advice is crucial. Legal support can make all the difference when it comes to challenging an unlawful eviction or demanding repairs.
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).
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.