The upcoming UK Renters Reform Bill impact on tenants rights could represent the biggest shift in private renting in decades. For England’s estimated 11 million private renters, understanding what’s coming is key to protecting yourself and your home. If you’re currently facing uncertainty or want to understand how these changes might affect you, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) can provide direct legal support and practical guidance for tenants at risk.
How Will the Upcoming UK Renters Reform Bill Impact Tenants Rights?
First introduced in outline in the Queen’s Speech of May 2022, and put forward formally as the Renters (Reform) Bill in May 2023, this proposed legislation aims to improve security and standards for tenants while simplifying processes for responsible landlords. The bill is still undergoing parliamentary scrutiny, but it is widely expected to pass in some form during 2024.
Here’s what tenants need to know about the proposed changes and how they could affect your rights as a renter in England.
Ending Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
A central part of the upcoming UK Renters Reform Bill impact on tenants rights is the removal of Section 21 evictions. Currently, landlords can use Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 to evict tenants with just two months’ notice, even if the tenant hasn’t done anything wrong. Once the bill becomes law, landlords will no longer be allowed to end a tenancy without a reason.
This will significantly improve housing security for tenants who rent privately. While landlords will still be able to evict using Section 8 (for issues like rent arrears or antisocial behaviour), they will need to provide valid grounds and evidence.
Moving to a Single System of Periodic Tenancies
Another substantial change is the shift to open-ended tenancy agreements. Instead of fixed-term tenancies (often six or twelve months), all tenancies will become periodic. This means tenants can end their tenancy with two months’ notice at any point, while landlords must have a legitimate reason to do so.
This flexibility gives tenants more control over when they move and encourages long-term renting without fear of unfair notice periods.
Increased Tenant Protections Against Rent Increases
Under current law, landlords can set any rent level when a fixed-term period ends. The Renters Reform Bill proposes that rent increases be limited to once per year, with two months’ notice required. If tenants believe a proposed increase is unfair, they can challenge it through the First-tier Tribunal.
These measures aim to protect tenants from being priced out of their homes through sudden or excessive rent rises.
New Rights to Request Pets in Rental Homes
For pet owners, the bill brings potential good news. Tenants will have the legal right to request to keep a pet in their home, and landlords can only refuse on reasonable grounds. Importantly, landlords will be allowed to require pet damage insurance, which strikes a balance between tenant freedom and property protection.
National Landlord Register and Property Portal
To improve transparency and enforcement, the government plans to create an online Property Portal that includes a national register of landlords. This will help tenants verify whether a landlord is complying with regulations and make enforcement easier for local authorities when issues arise.
It also puts pressure on landlords to maintain legal standards in property safety, repairs, and tenancy practices, ultimately benefitting renters across the sector.
A Dedicated Private Renters’ Ombudsman
Alongside legislative changes, a new Private Renters’ Ombudsman will be introduced. This service will provide free, impartial dispute resolution without the need to go through the courts. For tenants dealing with issues like withheld deposits or repair delays, this change could make it easier and faster to resolve disputes.
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).
What the Changes Mean for Tenants Going Forward
While the bill is still progressing through Parliament (as of early 2024), its direction is clear: to provide fairer terms and stronger legal protections. When enforced, tenants will benefit from greater housing security, transparency, and decision-making power over their home life.
If you’re currently renting or planning to rent soon, it’s a good idea to stay updated and understand your legal rights. These changes spell a shift in power balance, aiming to provide renters with more stability without penalising responsible landlords.
Understanding the Upcoming UK Renters Reform Bill Impact on Tenants Rights
- Section 21 notices will be abolished, meaning landlords can no longer evict tenants without a reason.
- All tenancies will become periodic, offering tenants more freedom to leave and greater stability to stay.
- Rent increases will be more controlled, and disputes can be taken to tribunal.
- Pet ownership requests must be considered fairly, with proper insurance protections.
- A Property Portal and Ombudsman will improve enforcement and accessibility of tenant support.
While it’s still a proposal, the Renters Reform Bill is expected to pass in 2024. Once it becomes law, tenants will benefit from stronger safeguards and more predictable housing conditions. If you’re unsure how the bill might affect you, getting advice from tenant support services like The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) can be a useful next step.
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.