After years of debate and delay, it has finally happened. The Renters’ Rights Bill has received Royal Assent (27 October 2025) and is now officially the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
This is the most significant reform of tenancy law since the Housing Act 1988, marking the biggest shake-up of the private rented sector in almost 40 years. It represents a complete overhaul of how landlords, agents and tenants operate — and will fundamentally reshape the lettings landscape.
As always, the key question for readers of Property Investor News is: what does it actually mean for landlords and investors?
Where We Are Now
Royal Assent means the Act is now law, but it does not mean that everything changes immediately. The Act will be rolled out in stages through 2026, with only the first small batch of measures taking effect later this year.
For now:
• Section 21 still applies
• Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies remain
• Existing rent-review procedures continue
The Government will activate the new provisions gradually through commencement orders. The first will arrive on 27 December 2025, giving local authorities new investigatory powers, but the wider tenancy reforms will follow next year.
