Changes and Key Points
Landlords must follow strict rules when evicting tenants, depending on the tenancy type.
Most private tenants have an assured shorthold tenancy, requiring a written notice for eviction.
Section 8 (breach of tenancy agreement) and Section 21 (no-fault eviction).
Section 21 allows landlords to evict tenants without reason after a minimum two-month notice period.
Over 26,000 no-fault evictions have occurred in England since 2019.
Illegal for landlords to use force or change locks during eviction.
The Renters' Rights Bill aims to ban Section 21 evictions and introduce a new system for evictions with valid grounds.
New tenants will have a 12-month "protected period" against eviction for landlord's personal reasons.
After the protected period, landlords must provide four months' notice for eviction.
Landlords can still reclaim the property for reasons like rent arrears or criminal behavior.
Existing tenancies will convert to the new system with no fixed end date, requiring specific reasons for eviction.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook hopes for implementation before summer 2025.
Landlords can only increase rent by a "fair and realistic" amount, in line with average local rents.
New plans allow only one annual rent increase at the market rate for all private landlords.
Landlords must publish desired rent when re-letting a property, banning rental bidding wars.
Maximum deposit allowed is five weeks' rent, or six weeks if annual rent exceeds £50,000.
Landlords must place deposits in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme for assured shorthold tenancies in England and Wales.
Deposits are returned if the tenant fulfills tenancy obligations and leaves the property in good condition.
Homes must be fit for human habitation, meeting standards for safety, health, and energy efficiency.
Landlords are responsible for repairs and maintenance, ensuring the property is in good condition.
Landlords cannot refuse to rent based on protected characteristics like children or claiming benefits.
New law grants tenants the legal right to request keeping a pet.
Landlords can only refuse on reasonable grounds, but may require extra insurance.
Landlords must give at least 24 hours' notice before entering the property, except in emergencies.
Visits should be at a reasonable time and at least three months apart after the initial inspection.