By Siobahn SylvesterSenior Associate & Deputy Head of Tourism & Leisure
The Renters’ Rights Bill, originally the Renters (Reform) Bill, which was promised by the Conservative Government in June 2022, received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025 introducing the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. (the Act).
The Act is the biggest reform of possession legislation since the Housing Act 1998, as amended, drastically changing the rights of landlords and tenants and bringing significant changes to the residential private rented sector in England.
Whilst now law, the new Act has not yet commenced. Secondary legislation of the Secretary of State is needed to implement the law. Timeframes are expected to be announced imminently but it is expected to be enforceable in early 2026.
The biggest impact of the Act for landlords is that no-fault evictions will be abolished, along with assured shorthold tenancies, affording tenants more security from eviction.
The Act extends the Decent Homes Standards introduced in July 2023 for social housing providers, to all private housing and requires landlords to become members of a recognised portal and register with the risk of significant financial sanctions for failures to comply, along with new investigatory powers for local authorities and a newly appointed Ombudsman to resolve disputes.
Save for limited grounds, including wanting to sell the property or move into the property as their principal home, landlords will now have to prove a fault ground to evict tenants and if relying on rent arrears, the level of arrears needed will be higher, and the period of notice required longer.
Many landlords will be left with tenants they cannot evict without there being a proven fault by the tenant.
If you wish to obtain advice or guidance on the impact of the Act on you, or if you are a landlord looking to recover possession of your property, Wilkin Chapman Rollits has a dedicated residential landlord and tenant team who will be happy to assist.