A Guide to the Renters Rights Bill and New Rules for Landlords (2025)

Landlords faced several significant legislative changes in 2025, including new requirements introduced through the Renters Rights Bill. This landmark reform package will reshape the private rented sector (PRS), affecting how landlords manage properties, handle tenancies, and plan future investments — including decisions around when to sell at auction.

This guide breaks down what’s in the Renters Rights Bill, how to stay compliant, and what additional rules landlords should prepare for in the coming years.

What Is the Renters Rights Bill?

The Renters Rights Bill introduces several major reforms landlords must understand and plan for. Key proposals include:

1. Abolition of Section 21 Evictions

One of the most significant changes is the removal of Section 21 “no fault” evictions.

Landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without providing a defined legal reason. Accepted grounds will include:

• Persistent rent arrears
• Anti‑social behaviour
• A landlord’s genuine intention to sell the property (including selling at auction)
• Moving themselves or a family member into the property
• Once Section 21 is abolished, Section 8 will become the only eviction route.

 
2. Decent Homes Standard Extended to Private Rentals

For the first time, private rented homes will need to meet the Decent Homes Standard, previously a requirement only for social housing.

Landlords may need to upgrade properties that fall below the standard.

This includes the extension of Awaab’s Law, which enforces strict timelines for inspecting and repairing hazards such as damp and mould.

 
3. Ban on Bidding Wars & Limits on Rent Increases

Two key measures aim to improve fairness for tenants:

• No more rental bidding wars — tenants cannot bid above the advertised rent.
• Rent increases restricted — only permitted via a Section 13 notice, once per year, and must reflect current market rates.
   

4. Introduction of a Landlord Ombudsman

A new Landlord Ombudsman will be established to settle disputes without going to court.

Landlords must register, and tenants will be able to escalate complaints through this service.

 
5. Abolition of Fixed‑Term Tenancies

All tenancies will become periodic (rolling).

Tenants will have the right to leave with two months’ notice, and fixed‑term agreements signed before the law comes into force will automatically convert to periodic.

 
6. Creation of a Private Rented Sector Database

The government plans a digital database displaying information about landlords, including any historical banning orders.

This is designed to improve transparency and help tenants make more informed decisions.

 
7. New Tenant Protections

New protections include:

• Tenants gaining the right to request a pet, which landlords must not unreasonably refuse
• Landlords being allowed to request pet‑damage insurance
• A ban on discrimination against tenants with children or those receiving benefits 

How Can Landlords Stay Compliant?

To prepare for the new legislation, landlords should:

1. Update contracts and tenancy documentation

Ensure tenancy agreements reflect new rules on:

• Rent increases
• Notice periods
• Tenant rights
• Property standards

2. Review property condition and maintenance

Ensure properties meet the Decent Homes Standard and schedule upgrades where needed.

3. Strengthen your compliance processes

Legislation is changing rapidly — landlords should stay up to date or work with a letting agent or professional adviser.

Other Expected Rules Affecting Landlords

Legislative reform extends beyond the Renters Rights Bill. Over the next few years, landlords should also prepare for:

 Minimum EPC Rating Changes

The government has proposed raising the minimum EPC requirement for rental properties to EPC C by 2030.

This may affect:

• Investment decisions
• Property refurbishment plans
• The value and saleability of older properties
• Landlords planning to sell at auction may find EPC improvements increase competitiveness among buyers.

 
Selective and Additional Licensing Expansion

Local authorities can now introduce licensing schemes more easily, without needing Secretary of State approval.

This could mean:

• More areas requiring landlord licences
• Additional costs
• New compliance obligations
• Always check licensing rules before buying investment property, especially at auction.

Find Your Next Investment Property at Auction

Buying at auction offers speed, transparency and secure sales — particularly valuable for landlords navigating legislative change.

At BTG Eddisons Property Auctions, we provide a wide range of residential, mixed‑use and land opportunities across the UK via live‑streamed and online auctions.

Explore properties available now and find your next investment.

Browse properties and sell at auction with BTG Eddisons Property Auctions.

Our team can guide you through the auction buying process and help you identify suitable investment opportunities.