Renters’ Rights Act – Vital Updates for Landlords & Tenants

The Renters’ Rights Act has officially become law this week, receiving Royal Assent on October 27, 2025. While major reforms are now enshrined in UK law, the government is still to confirm the go-live date for these changes. For now, the current rules remain in place until official commencement is announced. Oakheart will continue to keep all our landlords and tenants informed every step of the way.​

Section 21 “no-fault” evictions will be abolished when the Act comes into force. All Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will shift automatically to rolling periodic agreements, signalling the end of fixed-term contracts. In future, landlords must use Section 8 grounds for all evictions, requiring stronger compliance with updated mandatory and discretionary criteria. For any current Section 21 notices, only those issued before the Act’s commencement will be valid for a limited transition window.​

Rent increases will be limited to once per year, delivered through a Section 13 notice. Tenants will gain enhanced rights to challenge rent rises before a tribunal, which may delay or backdate increases in successful appeals. Agencies should ready themselves for increased appeal activity and ensure compliance with the new notice processes when they take effect.​

Bidding wars are set to be banned, meaning agents and landlords must stick to advertised prices. The Act also gives tenants the right to request pets, with refusals restricted to genuine property or head lease reasons. Extra pet fees or insurance will not be permitted; standard security deposits are considered sufficient. The Decent Homes Standard will become compulsory for all rentals, with speedy repairs required, especially if health hazards are present.

Landlords and agents must treat tenants on benefits or with children fairly; new anti-discrimination rules will apply. A new private rented sector database and landlord ombudsman will boost transparency and offer impartial redress.​

Oakheart’s local team is ready to guide clients through every phase of this transition:

For the latest clarification on your tenancies or portfolio, please get in touch. We will always keep you updated as soon as the government publishes new information.

We appreciate these are substantial changes for landlords and tenants alike. Oakheart will share more news and practical support as soon as more is confirmed by the government about when the new law takes effect and how it may affect existing agreements. For prompt guidance or questions about your tenancy, contact Oakheart today.