The Renters’ Rights Bill is now moving toward its final stages in Parliament and is expected to become law by summer 2025. With some of the most significant reforms to the private rental sector in over 30 years, both landlords and tenants across the UK — including here in the North East — should be preparing now.
But while the bill is designed to give renters more protection, many industry experts warn it could unintentionally reduce access to quality housing and push some landlords to exit the market entirely.
Key Changes at a Glance
Section 21 evictions to be abolished – Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a legal reason.
End of fixed-term tenancies – All tenancies will become periodic. Tenants can give two months’ notice at any time.
Rent controls introduced – Rent can only be increased once a year and must reflect local market rates.
Lifetime deposits – Tenants will carry deposits from property to property, easing the financial burden when moving.
No discrimination – Landlords won’t be able to refuse tenants based on receiving benefits or having children.
Decent Homes Standard extended – All privately rented homes must now meet minimum living standards, including under “Awaab’s Law.”
Risks and Reactions from the Sector
While tenant groups have welcomed the reforms, landlord organisations — including the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) — have sounded a note of caution:
“The end of no-fault evictions is a major shift. We need time, guidance, and clear legal frameworks to adjust,” says Ben Beadle, NRLA Chief Executive.
Research by estate group LRG warns that banning advance rent payments could make it harder for low-income tenants or self-employed applicants to secure housing. Currently, landlords often use higher upfront payments as a risk-mitigation tool. With this option gone, landlords may become more selective, not less.
Landlords also fear that removing fixed-term contracts — especially in the student sector — will create complications for regaining possession at key times of year. Smaller HMOs with fewer than three bedrooms, common in Durham and Newcastle, may fall outside exemptions designed to protect student lets.
How JW Wood Advises Landlords to Prepare
With the bill advancing through the Report Stage in the House of Lords, now is the time to act. Here’s how landlords can get ahead:
Review tenancy agreements – Prepare for a shift to rolling contracts and check your notice clauses.
Plan for rent reviews – Ensure any increases follow local market data. JW Wood can support with rental valuations.
Audit your property standards – Check for damp, mould, or structural issues that could fall foul of the updated Decent Homes Standard.
Stay informed – Further amendments are still possible. We will keep our clients updated as the legislation progresses.
A Time of Change – But Also Opportunity
While it’s easy to focus on the challenges, these reforms could also improve tenant retention, enhance housing quality, and encourage long-term lets. A transparent, fair system benefits landlords and tenants alike — especially those who already run professionally managed portfolios.
At JW Wood, we’re committed to helping landlords across the North East navigate these reforms with confidence. If you’d like advice on adjusting your portfolio or tenancy strategy, our lettings experts are just a phone call away.
Need Help Understanding How This Affects You?
Contact your local JW Wood branch for a tailored landlord service.
Adapted from moneyweek.com and lettingaproperty.com