The Impact of Renters Reform Bill on Tenant Eviction Rights is set to be one of the most significant changes in housing legislation in England in recent years. For renters across the country, understanding what this Bill means can make a real difference to their housing security and legal protection.
If you’re concerned about how the Bill might affect you or are at risk of eviction, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first point of contact. TPS offers direct, solicitor-backed legal guidance to tenants across the UK, helping you understand and defend your rights before issues escalate.
How the Renters Reform Bill Changes Eviction Rules in England
Introduced in Parliament in May 2023, the Renters Reform Bill proposes a series of legal updates, chiefly aiming to create a fairer rental market. One of the central components of the Bill is the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions, which has been a longstanding concern for renters’ stability.
Section 21 notices currently allow landlords to evict tenants without giving a specific reason, provided they follow proper notice procedures. Under the new proposals, these notices would be entirely removed. If the Bill passes in its current form, landlords must instead rely on legitimate grounds under Section 8, making evictions more transparent and accountable.
This move is widely viewed as a way to empower tenants by giving them more confidence to report disrepair or challenge unfair treatment, without fear of sudden eviction. The change also contributes to the government’s commitment to a more stable private rented sector in England.
Key Impact of Renters Reform Bill on Tenant Eviction Rights
With the removal of no-fault evictions, landlords will need to provide evidence-based reasons for ending a tenancy. The Bill proposes expanding the grounds for eviction under Section 8, including:
- Landlords wanting to sell the property
- Landlords or close family members intending to move in
- Repeated serious rent arrears
- Breach of tenancy, such as anti-social behaviour
However, even with expanded reasons, landlords can’t end a tenancy on a whim. They must follow due legal process and provide appropriate notice, typically two months. Courts will still need to assess whether the grounds are valid, offering a new layer of legal protection for renters.
Importantly, the proposals also introduce a new structure known as a “periodic tenancy” which replaces fixed-term agreements. This means all tenancies will roll monthly (or weekly), providing tenants with greater flexibility to end a tenancy with just two months’ notice while landlords must still offer valid grounds for termination.
What This Means If You’re Currently Renting
If you are a tenant, especially in a short-term or rolling tenancy, it’s essential to understand your current rights and how the proposed changes may affect you. Until the Bill officially passes through Parliament and becomes law — which could happen later in 2024 — Section 21 is still in use. This means tenants can still legally be evicted with two months’ notice and no reason given by landlords.
Once the Renters Reform Bill becomes law, tenants should gain significant protections. You will no longer have to worry about raising concerns such as mould or safety issues, knowing that doing so cannot lead to a retaliatory eviction using a Section 21 notice. This shift creates a safer environment for tenants to assert their rights around housing standards and contract fairness.
Moreover, because all tenancies will be periodic, tenants are no longer locked into long-term contracts they may not be able to afford or escape from due to changing life circumstances. The goal is to make renting more flexible, consistent, and secure for both parties — especially tenants.
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).
Next Steps: Staying Informed About the Impact of Renters Reform Bill on Tenant Eviction Rights
Understanding the timeline for the Bill’s progress is key. It is currently in the committee stage, with reviews and consultations ongoing into 2024. It is expected to pass into law late this year or early next, although delays can always occur. Tenants should follow updates from official sources such as GOV.UK, or consult with qualified housing advisors for tailored guidance.
It’s also worth noting that once the Bill becomes law, landlords will be required to register their properties on a national database, improving transparency and accountability. The Government has stated that these reforms aim to “bring renting into the 21st century,” reflecting a broader trend towards tenant empowerment across the housing sector.
Finally, remember that even with supportive changes, misunderstandings and disputes can still arise in private rentals. Having third-party support or legal advice can make a meaningful difference when issues do surface.
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.