At long last, the Renters Reform Bill was introduced to Parliament in May, but it has a long way to go before becoming law and is most likely to change and improve its proposals as it passes through the various stages of parliament.

What is the Renters Reform Bill?
The Renters Reform Bill was introduced to Parliament for its first reading on May 17, 2023. Its aim is to improve life for 11 million renters and 2.3 million landlords in the UK and is based on five years of research conducted with landlord and tenant groups.*

What does it mean for tenants?
Tenants can feel more secure with the proposed abolishment of Section 21. Protecting tenants from unfair evictions creates a more homely feeling and gives tenants real peace of mind. Renters will also be able to challenge landlords when it comes to providing good-quality homes. It's good news for your pets too, who will also have more rights than ever before.

What does it mean for landlords?
Section 8 will be strengthened, which allows landlords to end tenancy agreements early if they have good reason to do so. Despite the fears some have expressed about abolishing Section 21 - ‘no fault’ evictions, the reality is that it will make it easier for landlords to evict tenants for anti-social behaviour and repeated missed rent payments. While blanket bans on pets have also been proposed, with the new legislation in place, landlords can insist on their tenants' pets having pet insurance, certificates, and, in the case of dogs, being microchipped. Landlords will be able to increase rents, but the notice period to do so will be doubled.

Private rental property portal
This aims to help landlords have a better understanding of their legal obligations. This will define issues in compliance and improve the landlord-tenant relationship. Each party will know where they stand and be better informed of their rights, reducing confusion and potential conflict.

When will it come into effect?
With some predicting October 2024, there are many stages for the Bill to pass before it becomes law. The House of Commons has yet to complete the report stage and committee stage before having a third reading. Then the Bill will have to pass the House of Lords with the same five stages as the House of Parliament, and finally, after all of this, face amendments before gaining royal assent. This means that the finer details of the Bill could change before it becomes law, and the current proposals have a long way to go before they are set in stone.

The importance of a good letting agent
Ultimately, tenants want a great place to live and are entitled to feel secure and live in a property that is up to standard. Landlords need to protect their investments and their property. Using the right agent will mean that you, as a tenant, will only ever find property of a good standard and equally reputable landlords. As a landlord, using a letting agent means you will have the opportunity to let your property to reliable tenants thoroughly checked with references and with as many other letting management facilities as you require. So it’s in both parties interests to use a letting agent, making letting and renting a seamless and enjoyable process. Not to mention reducing the worries and risks for renters and landlords in light of the new reforms.

Whether you are renting or letting, contact our friendly team today so you can make the most of all your property plans.

GOV.UK*