With the Renters’ Rights Bill progressing through Parliament, landlords must prepare for some of the biggest rental sector reforms in decades. While much attention has focused on the removal of Section 21 (“no-fault” evictions), there are several other key changes that landlords need to be aware of.
The government is also introducing a mandatory landlord portal, a single ombudsman scheme, new eviction grounds under Section 8, stricter property standards (including Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard), and tenant-friendly reforms such as rights to request pets. But with all these changes, are there any positives for landlords? And how can property investors prepare for compliance while ensuring their portfolios remain profitable?
This article will explore:
◆ Some of the key changes under the Renters’ Rights Bill
◆ How these reforms will affect landlords
◆ Potential benefits for professional landlords
1. Latest Updates & Confirmed Changes Under the Renters’ Rights Bill
Abolition of Section 21 (“No-Fault” Evictions) & Expansion of Section 8 Grounds for Possession
One of the most significant changes is the removal of Section 21, meaning landlords can no longer evict tenants without providing a legal reason.
Instead, evictions must be carried out using Section 8, which has been expanded to include new grounds for possession.
New & Strengthened Grounds for Possession Under Section 8:
◆ Selling the property – Landlords will have a new mandatory ground for possession if they intend to sell.
◆ Moving into the property – Landlords or close family members can reclaim the property for their own use.
◆ Persistent serious rent arrears (Three Strikes Rule) – If a tenant has been in arrears three times within three years, landlords can evict them, even if they are not in arrears at the time of the hearing.
◆ New Three-Month Rent Arrears Rule – Landlords cannot begin eviction proceedings until a tenant has missed three full months of rent (instead of two months under previous rules).
◆ Anti-social behaviour – The Bill strengthens powers to evict tenants involved in criminal or nuisance behaviour.
◆ Potential Positive: The new grounds for possession provide stronger legal backing for landlords, making it easier to remove tenants who abuse the system.
