August 11, 2025
A Practical Checklist for Landlords
The government’s Renters Reform Bill is set to bring the most significant changes to the private rented sector in over 30 years. With big updates coming, like the end of Section 21 and new rules around property standards—it’s essential that landlords are prepared.
The Bill is still evolving, and understanding its progress will allow you to proactively adapt your strategies and avoid potential penalties
Whether you’re managing one property or an entire portfolio, this practical checklist will help ensure your rental is ready for the changes ahead.
1. Review Your Tenancy Agreements
Start by checking your existing tenancy agreements. The Bill proposes to replace Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) with a single system of periodic tenancies.
What to do:
- Switch to rolling contracts where possible.
- Remove fixed end dates to prepare for periodic terms.
- Make sure your agreement aligns with current legislation.
2. Prepare for the End of Section 21
The Renters Reform Bill plans to abolish Section 21, which currently allows landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason.
What to do:
- Familiarise yourself with the new grounds for possession under Section 8.
- Keep clear records of rent payments, breaches, or other relevant matters.
- Ensure any future evictions meet legal grounds and are well-documented.
3. Make Sure Your Property Is Safe and Decent
The Bill introduces the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector for the first time. That means your property must meet specific safety, repair, and energy standards.
What to do:
- Carry out a full condition check of the property.
- Address any outstanding repairs or safety issues. (e.g., ensuring adequate insulation, fixing damp problems, checking electrical wiring).
- Ensure your property has working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
4. Strengthen Your Tenant Communication
New rules will encourage more transparency and accountability between landlords and tenants. That means being responsive and fair is more important than ever.
What to do:
- Keep written records of all communications.
- Respond to maintenance requests quickly.
- Make sure your tenants know how to contact you—or your managing agent.
5. Check Your Licensing Requirements
The Bill aims to improve enforcement and expand the use of landlord databases. It may lead to tighter licensing rules across more areas.
What to do:
- Check whether your property requires a local licence.
- Make sure your contact details and documents are up to date.
- Register with any required property or landlord databases.
6. Think About Pets
The new rules will give tenants the right to request a pet, and landlords will need a good reason to refuse.
What to do:
- Review your tenancy agreement’s pet clause.
- Decide if your property is suitable for pets (and under what conditions).
- Consider adding pet insurance as a required part of tenancy terms.
7. Stay Informed
The Renters Reform Bill is still progressing through Parliament. While the final details may change, staying up to date will help you plan ahead.
What to do:
- Sign up for updates from reliable property news sources.
- Talk to your letting agent about how the changes may affect you.
- Use professional support (like Jacobs Steel) to stay legally compliant.
Ready to Future-Proof Your Rental?
At Jacobs Steel Lettings, we help landlords across Sussex and the South Coast stay ahead of new regulations and changing tenant expectations. From managing compliance to keeping your property tenanted and profitable, our expert team is here to help.
Don’t get caught off guard by the Renters Reform Bill. For a comprehensive overview and practical tips, download our exclusive free guide: ’10 Things Every Landlord Needs to Know in 2025′
FAQs about the Renters Reform Bill
Q1: When is the Renters Reform Bill expected to become law?
The Renters’ Rights Bill is nearing its final stages in Parliament. Having completed the Report Stage in the House of Lords on July 15, 2025, and following the Third Reading on July 21, it now awaits Commons consideration of Lords amendments on September 8, 2025.
At present, Royal Assent is anticipated in autumn 2025, though the process may slip into early autumn depending on parliamentary timings. Final implementation is expected in early 2026, with key changes (e.g., abolition of Section 21, roll-out of periodic tenancies) likely coming into force several months after Royal Assent.
Q2: Will I still be able to increase rent under the new Bill?
Yes, landlords will still be able to increase rent. However, rent increases will be limited to once every 12 months, using the statutory Section 13 process. You must give tenants at least two months’ notice using the prescribed form, and the increase must reflect current market rent. Tenants have the right to challenge excessive increases at the First-tier Tribunal.
Q3: What happens to my existing Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) when the Bill comes into force?
Existing ASTs will transition to the new periodic tenancy system. There will be a transitional period, after which all tenancies will operate under the new rules. It’s important to review your current agreements and prepare for this shift.
Q4: If Section 21 is abolished, how can I regain possession of my property if a tenant breaks the rules?
With the abolition of Section 21, landlords will rely on strengthened Section 8 grounds for possession. These grounds cover various reasons such as rent arrears, damage to the property, anti-social behaviour, or if the landlord genuinely intends to sell the property or move into it themselves. Maintaining clear records of any breaches will be essential.
Q5: What does the “Decent Homes Standard” mean for my property?
The Decent Homes Standard requires rental properties to be safe, in a good state of repair, have adequate facilities, and provide a reasonable degree of thermal comfort. This includes addressing issues like damp, mould, hazards, and ensuring proper insulation. Regular property checks and proactive maintenance will be key.
Q6: Will I be able to charge a higher deposit or “pet rent” if my tenant wants a pet?
The Tenant Fees Act 2019 already caps tenancy deposits. The Renters Reform Bill states that landlords cannot charge “pet rent.” Instead, landlords can require tenants to have pet insurance to cover any potential damage caused by the pet, or request a higher deposit (within the existing cap) if agreed.
Q7: Where can I get further advice and support on the Renters Reform Bill?
You should consult reliable sources such as the government’s official guidance, landlord associations, legal professionals specializing in property law, or experienced letting agents like Jacobs Steel, who can provide up-to-date advice and support.