Here at Stewarts Estates, we want to keep you informed about significant changes on the horizon that could impact the rental market. The Renters’ Rights Bill is currently making its way through Parliament, with the latest round of amendments discussed on 26 February 2025. These proposed changes aim to create a more balanced and transparent rental market for both landlords and tenants. Here’s a quick update on the bill’s progress and what these potential changes could mean for you.

The Renters’ Rights Bill is currently at the Committee of the Whole House stage in the House of Lords. At this point, members of the House of Lords are reviewing and debating a series of proposed amendments to refine the bill. While some amendments seek to adjust the balance between tenant rights and landlord responsibilities, others aim to ensure that the rental market remains fair and sustainable.

• Current Proposal: The bill seeks to abolish fixed-term tenancies, moving to periodic (month-to-month) agreements by default.
• Proposed Amendment: Some Lords are advocating for the option to retain fixed-term tenancies up to 12 months if both landlords and tenants agree.
• Why This Is Good: This change would provide greater flexibility for landlords to plan rental income and for tenants to secure housing for a set period without long-term commitments.

• Current Proposal: Rent increases would be allowed, but without clear caps.
• Proposed Amendment: Several amendments propose capping rent increases to align with the Bank of England base rate or linking them to inflation. Simplified tribunal processes for disputing rent increases are also on the table.
• Why This Is Good: This could lead to more predictable rent adjustments, reducing disputes and helping both landlords and tenants plan more effectively.

• Current Proposal: The bill seeks to abolish Section 21 “no-fault” evictions, making it harder for landlords to regain possession of their properties quickly.
• Proposed Amendment: A key amendment proposes allowing small landlords (those managing fewer than five properties) to continue using Section 21 notices. This would help them manage risks without lengthy legal battles.
• Why This Is Good: Protecting small landlords from excessive legal costs could encourage more investment in rental properties, ensuring a healthier supply for tenants.

• Current Proposal: Fixed-term tenancies for students could be abolished, causing uncertainty for both student tenants and landlords.
• Proposed Amendment: An amendment seeks to retain fixed-term tenancies for student accommodations to align with academic calendars.
• Why This Is Good: This move would help stabilize the student rental market, ensuring that student landlords can plan for vacancies and maintenance during non-academic months.

• Pet Ownership: New proposals aim to allow tenants to keep pets, with a reasonable pet damage deposit option for landlords.
• Broadband Installation: Tenants may gain the right to request Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) installations, with landlords unable to refuse unreasonably.
• Home Adaptations: Amendments propose requiring landlords to approve reasonable home adaptations for disabled tenants following a council assessment.

Why This Is Good: These changes strike a balance between enhancing tenant rights and providing safeguards for landlords, ensuring that rental properties remain well-maintained and profitable.

The Renters’ Rights Bill is still under discussion, and these proposed amendments suggest that Parliament is keen to ensure that the final law will be fair, practical, and sustainable for everyone involved. As the bill progresses, we’ll keep you updated with all the latest developments.

At Stewarts Estates, we’re committed to helping our clients navigate these changes smoothly. If you have any questions about how the Renters’ Rights Bill might affect you or need advice on managing your properties, please get in touch. We’re here to help you make the most of these potential positive changes!

Stay tuned for more updates!

For more details, you can access the full document here: Full List of Amendments.