The Renters Reform Bill 2025: Here's what landlords need to know | David Andrew

The Renters Reform Act is set to shake up the rental market, bringing in major changes that will impact the way you manage your properties from Spring 2025. From the end of Section 21 evictions to stricter rent regulations and increased tenant rights, landlords will need to adapt quickly to stay compliant and protect their investments. It’s a lot to keep up with—but you don’t have to do it alone. With our fully managed service, we take care of the complexities for you.

No More 'No-Fault' Evictions

The end of Section 21 evictions means you can no longer remove tenants without a valid legal reason. Mandatory grounds for possession now include wanting to sell the property, moving in yourself, or serious rent arrears. Discretionary reasons, such as antisocial behavior or property damage, will require a tribunal decision.

This makes tenant selection more critical than ever. Our in-house referencing process carefully vets applicants, reducing the likelihood of tenancy issues. And if eviction ever becomes necessary, we’ll provide assistance with any legal notices ensuring you stay on the right side of the law.

Fixed-Term Tenancies Are Gone

All new tenancies will automatically be periodic, meaning tenants can leave with just two months’ notice at any time. Without the security of fixed-term contracts, landlords face greater uncertainty and the potential for more frequent void periods.

Our proactive approach helps minimise these risks. We focus on securing reliable, long-term tenants, keeping occupancy rates high and void periods to a minimum. And when tenants do decide to move on, we ensure a smooth transition by marketing your property quickly and effectively.

Rent Adjustments & Reviews

Under the new rules, rent increases can only happen once per year, with landlords required to provide tenants two months’ notice via a Section 13 notice. Tenants also have the right to challenge rent increases at a tribunal.

With these restrictions, it’s more important than ever to ensure your rent is competitive but fair. We conduct regular market reviews, making sure your rental income reflects the current market while remaining compliant. And when it’s time to adjust the rent, we handle the paperwork and communication, so you don’t have to worry about disputes.

New Compliance Rules – Digital Property Portal

Every landlord will now be required to register their property on a new government-run digital portal. This will track whether your property meets all legal requirements, from safety certifications to tenancy agreements. Failing to register or keep your records up to date could result in fines and penalties.

The details of the new digital property portal are still unclear, and we don’t yet know exactly how it will operate. However, once the requirements are confirmed, David Andrew will be on hand to assist wherever possible, ensuring you remain compliant and up to date with the latest regulations.

The Right to Request Pets

Tenants will now have the right to request a pet, and landlords must consider it fairly. While you can’t issue a blanket ban, you can still ask for pet insurance to cover any potential damage.

At David Andrew we are pet lovers, with our offices home to two staff pets. Therefore, we understand this can be a tricky area to navigate and we appreciate the need for precautions that ensure protection of your property while allowing responsible pet ownership.

No More Discrimination Against Benefit Recipients

Refusing tenants based on them receiving Universal Credit or Housing Benefit is now illegal. All applicants must be assessed based on affordability, not income source.

Our team ensures compliance with these new rules while still protecting your interests. We conduct thorough affordability checks on all applicants, ensuring tenants can meet their rental obligations.

Ban on Bidding Wars & Rent in Advance Restrictions

Landlords and agents are no longer allowed to encourage bidding wars, where tenants offer over the advertised rent to secure a property. Additionally, restrictions are being introduced on the amount of rent in advance that can be requested.

This means pricing your property correctly is more important than ever. We ensure your rental price is set at the right market level, attracting the best tenants while remaining compliant with the law.

A New Private Rented Sector Ombudsman

Another change coming into effect is the introduction of a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman, which all landlords must now join. This gives tenants a clear way to escalate complaints about repairs, deposits, or unfair treatment, and the Ombudsman has the power to enforce decisions, issue fines, and award compensation.

For landlords, this means greater scrutiny and accountability. A delayed repair or a simple miscommunication could now turn into a formal dispute, potentially costing you time and money.

However, with ourfully managed service, you won’t have to worry. We handle tenant concerns quickly and professionally, ensuring issues don’t escalate. From maintenance requests to legal compliance, we take care of any tenant concerns professionally and quickly, ensuring issues do not escalate and keeping your property protected.

Why Now Is the Time to Go Fully Managed

The Renters Reform Act is set to bring major changes to the rental market, but it is important to note that it is not yet law and could still be subject to amendments before being passed. However, once approved, there will beno transition period—the changes will come into effect as soon as the law is passed, leaving landlords with no time to adjust. This makes preparation essential.

That’s where our fully managed servicecomes in. From tenant selection and rent collection to legal compliance and dispute resolution, we’ll be with youevery step of the way, ensuring your property remains profitable, protected, and hassle-free.

If you’d like to discuss how these reforms affect you or want to future-proof your rental investment, please do get in touch today. We’re here to help you navigate the new rental landscape with confidence.