What’s Happening with Renters’ Reform? A Guide for Tenants

If you’ve been hearing about “Renters’ Reform” and wondering what it actually means for you, you’re not alone. There’s been a lot of discussion, headlines, and proposed changes — so here’s a clear, straightforward summary of what’s happening and how it may affect you as a tenant.

What Is the Renters’ Reform Bill?

The Renters’ Reform refers to a set of major proposed changes to rental law in England, brought forward through the Renters Reform Bill.

Its purpose is to make renting fairer, safer, and more secure for tenants, while also creating clearer rules for landlords.

The Biggest Proposed Changes

Here are the key reforms tenants should know about:

Abolition of Section 21 (“No-Fault” Evictions)

One of the most significant changes is the proposed removal of Section 21 evictions. Under current rules, landlords can end a tenancy without giving a reason.

If the reforms go ahead:

• Landlords will need a valid legal reason to regain possession.

• Tenants will have greater security in their homes.

• Evictions will still be possible under legitimate grounds (e.g., rent arrears or landlord selling the property), but not without cause.

This is designed to give tenants more stability and confidence to put down roots.

Moving to Periodic Tenancies

The reform proposes replacing fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies with a simpler periodic system.

This would mean:

• Tenancies roll month-to-month automatically.

• Tenants can give notice more flexibly.

• There’s less pressure to sign long renewals.

For many renters, this increases flexibility and reduces the fear of sudden contract changes.

Stronger Property Standards

The government intends to introduce a “Decent Homes Standard” for the private rented sector — similar to what already exists in social housing.

This means:

• Clearer minimum quality standards

• Faster routes for addressing serious hazards

• Greater accountability for landlords who fail to maintain safe homes

Rent Increase Reforms

Under the proposed changes:

• Rent increases would be limited to once per year.

• Increases must follow a formal process.

• Tenants would have stronger rights to challenge excessive increases at tribunal.

This aims to make rent changes more predictable and transparent.

 A New Property Ombudsman

All private landlords would be required to join a government-approved Ombudsman scheme.

This would:

• Give tenants a free, impartial route to resolve disputes.

• Reduce the need for court action.

• Provide clearer enforcement where standards aren’t met.

What Does This Mean for You Right Now?

At the moment, many of these changes are still going through the legislative process. That means:

• Your current tenancy agreement remains valid.

• Existing legal procedures still apply.

• Changes will only take effect once the bill becomes law and implementation dates are confirmed.

However, the direction of travel is clear: greater protection, clearer rights, and more stability for tenants.

We’re Here to Help

Navigating rental law changes can feel overwhelming. If you’re unsure how these reforms may affect your tenancy, your notice period, or your rights, please contact us and we can go through it all! 

Our team is fully trained in renters’ reform, Rightmove certified, and Propertymark qualified — and we’re always happy to answer your questions.

As more details and timelines are confirmed, we’ll continue to keep you updated.

If you’d like advice specific to your situation, just get in touch — we’re here to help.