The Renters’ Rights Bill edged closer to implementation on 8th September, as MPs in the House of Commons considered a range of amendments made by the House of Lords before the summer.
This stage marked the final opportunity for both Houses to agree on the bill’s exact wording before it can receive Royal Assent and become law. It is clear that the housing minister wants this implemented quickly and while we have no certain date, we are hoping it will be in Spring 2026.
The Commons reviewed the amendments made by the Lords, in almost every case, ministers moved to disagree with the Lords’ changes, deciding to return the Bill to the version which had previously been agreed by MPs and so the key issues remain:
PETS IN LETS
Landlords will no longer be able to unreasonably refuse a tenant’s
request to keep a pet, and they cannot require tenants to take out pet insurance.
NO MORE ‘NO FAULT’ EVICTIONS
Section 21 will end, and all evictions must now proceed through Section 8, which has been expanded to cover a wider range of scenarios.
RENT INCREASES
Future rent increases can only occur once per year, using Section 13, and can be appealed to a First-tier Tribunal. A new delegated power will allow for rent increases to be backdated; but only if delays become widespread
RENT IN ADVANCE
Tenants will no longer be able to pay rent in advance of a new tenancy starting, which could impact those who don’t have proof of income, or a UK based guarantor.
STUDENT LETS
Purpose-built student accommodation will continue to operate under fixed-term tenancy agreements, recognising the unique academic year structure.