Renters Rights Bill clears parliament, Royal Assent & now becomes Law
The Renters’ Rights Bill completed its passage through Parliament on 22nd October and is set to become law. Here’s what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what landlords should do next.
Last month we shared an update explaining that the Renters’ Rights Bill was in its “ping pong” phase, the final stage of back-and-forth between the House of Commons and the Lords. We can now confirm that, as of 22 October 2025, that process is complete and the Bill has now received Royal Assent, officially becoming the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
This marks a major milestone in what began life as the Renters (Reform) Bill back in 2023 under the Conservative Government. The legislation represents one of the most significant overhauls of the private rented sector since the Housing Act 1988, but it’s important to stress that for most landlords, very little changes immediately.
What happened this week
The final vote in Parliament saw MPs agree to all of the Lords’ suggested amendments, meaning the Bill cleared both Houses without any further dispute. Following Royal Assent, it is now officially law.
However, the Government has stated that the new rules will be introduced in a phased and managed way, with commencement dates announced in due course. This will give landlords, agents and tenants time to adapt.
In short, the Renters’ Rights Act is now law, but it’s not yet in force.
A reminder of what’s in the Bill
The core features remain the same as those we outlined in our previous blogs:
- The core measures remain the same as those we outlined in our previous blogs:
- End of “no-fault” Section 21 evictions – Landlords will no longer be able to end tenancies without a specified reason once the new system is live.
- All tenancies to become periodic – Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced with rolling, open-ended tenancies.
- Reformed grounds for possession – Section 8 will be expanded and updated to include clear grounds for selling a property, moving in a family member, persistent rent arrears, or anti-social behaviour.
- Changes to rent reviews – Rent increases will be limited to once per year and must follow a fair, transparent process. Tenants will have the right to challenge excessive rises through the First-tier Tribunal.
- Abolition of rental “bidding wars” – Properties must be advertised with a clear asking rent, and agents or landlords cannot encourage higher bids.
- Improved property standards – The Decent Homes Standard will be extended to private rentals, setting out clearer expectations for safety, condition, and maintenance.
- More accountability for agents and landlords – Increased local authority powers and an expanded property portal are expected to improve compliance and transparency across the sector.
- Tenant rights and pets – Tenants will have the right to request a pet in their property, with landlords required to consider such requests reasonably.
What this means in practice
While the headlines may sound dramatic, in practice most professional landlords will see little disruption, particularly those already providing well-managed, good-quality homes.
The aim of the new legislation is not to penalise responsible landlords, but to raise standards across the sector and provide tenants with greater security and clarity.
When the changes do take effect, landlords will still have clear routes to regain possession. The strengthened Section 8 process should give greater confidence to those letting their properties properly and in good faith.
Next steps and preparation
There’s no need for landlords to make immediate changes, but it’s sensible to start preparing now. At Sandersons, we’re recommending that landlords, especially those currently self-managing, take a moment to review the following:
- Review existing tenancy agreements – Check they’re up to date and compliant.
- Audit property standards – Ensure all safety, repair and maintenance obligations are being met.
- Plan ahead for periodic tenancies – Consider how these will affect your long-term rental strategy. This includes appointing an agent who can secure reliable tenants and carry out thorough referencing.
- Stay compliant with rent reviews – Ensure any increases are in line with the correct notice and procedure.
- Keep communication open – Being transparent with tenants about upcoming changes helps maintain strong relationships and avoid confusion later.
- Speak to your agent – Our lettings team are already preparing for the new framework and will guide you through each step as it comes into effect.
In summary
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has now become law, marking the start of a new chapter for the private rented sector. However, the journey to full implementation is only just beginning.
There’s no need for concern. Landlords working with reputable agents like Sandersons, who already uphold high standards, are well placed to adapt smoothly when the time comes.
We’ll continue to provide updates as the Government confirms the commencement timetable and secondary legislation needed to bring each part of the Act into effect.
If you’d like us to review your tenancy documents or discuss how these changes could affect your properties, please contact your local Sandersons lettings team. We’re here to help you stay informed, compliant and confident.
Further reading:
If you are interested in learning more about the bill please review our previous content including:
To read the full Bill on the Government Website please click here.
