The Renters’ Rights Act: What Landlords Need to Know (2025 Guide)

By North East Property

The Renters’ Rights Act represents one of the most significant changes to the private rented sector in decades. Whether you’re a landlord with one property or a growing portfolio, the way rental property is managed, let, and exited is changing — and preparation is essential.

This guide explains what the Renters’ Rights Act means in practice, what is changing, and how landlords can protect themselves moving forward.

What Is the Renters’ Rights Act?

The Renters’ Rights Act (formerly known as the Renters Reform Bill) is designed to reform the private rented sector by increasing tenant protections, improving standards, and changing how landlords regain possession of their properties.

While the intention is to create a fairer system, the reality is that landlords will face more responsibility, more regulation, and less flexibility if they are not prepared.

Key Changes Under the Renters’ Rights Act

1. Abolition of Section 21 (‘No-Fault’ Evictions)

One of the biggest changes is the removal of Section 21 notices.

This means landlords will no longer be able to regain possession of a property without providing a valid reason.

Instead, landlords must rely on strengthened Section 8 grounds, such as:

• Selling the property

• Moving back in

• Rent arrears

• Anti-social behaviour

While these grounds are being expanded, evidence and correct process will be critical.

2. All Tenancies Move to a Periodic System

Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies will be replaced by a single system of periodic tenancies.

This means:

• Tenancies will not have a fixed end date

• Tenants can leave with notice

• Landlords can only regain possession using valid legal grounds

Landlords will need to be more strategic about tenant selection and long-term planning.

3. Limits on Rent Increases

Rent increases will be limited to once per year and must reflect market rent.

Landlords will be required to:

• Use the correct legal process

• Justify increases if challenged

• Be aware that tenants can dispute rises

Poorly managed rent reviews could lead to disputes or delays.

4. New Decent Homes Standard for the Private Rented Sector

The Decent Homes Standard, previously applied mainly to social housing, will now extend into the private rented sector.

This raises expectations around:

• Property condition

• Safety

• Heating and insulation

• General living standards

Landlords with older or poorly maintained properties may need to budget for improvements.

5. Stronger Enforcement & New Landlord Database

Local authorities will have increased enforcement powers, supported by:

• A new national landlord database

• Higher penalties for non-compliance

• Easier routes for tenants to raise complaints

This places greater importance on record keeping, compliance, and professional management.

6. Changes to Tenant Discrimination Rules

The Act aims to remove blanket bans on:

• Families with children

• Benefit recipients

Landlords will still be able to make reasonable affordability and suitability decisions, but policies must be applied carefully and fairly.

What Does This Mean for Landlords in Practice?

For landlords, the Renters’ Rights Act means:

• More responsibility

• Less margin for error

• Greater need for professional advice

• Increased focus on long-term tenants

Landlords who treat property as a business, rather than a side investment, will be best placed to adapt.

How Landlords Can Prepare Now

Practical steps landlords should be taking:

• Review tenancy agreements

• Tighten tenant referencing processes

• Ensure compliance is fully up to date

• Budget for maintenance and EPC improvements

• Understand exit strategies before purchasing

• Work with experienced letting and managing agents

Being proactive now will prevent problems later.

Will This Push Landlords Out of the Market?

For some landlords — particularly small portfolio owners — the answer may be yes.

Higher compliance costs, increased regulation, and reduced flexibility are already causing some landlords to sell or restructure, often moving properties into limited company ownership or exiting entirely.

This reduction in supply is likely to place upward pressure on rents, particularly in strong rental markets like the North East.

How North East Property Supports Landlords

At North East Property, we help landlords navigate the changing rental landscape by offering:

• Straight-talking advice

• Full lettings and property management services

• Compliance guidance

• Rent review and strategy planning

• Exit and restructuring advice

We work with landlords who want clarity, not confusion.

Final Thoughts: Adapt, Don’t Panic

The Renters’ Rights Act is a major shift, but it does not mean the end of private renting.

Landlords who:

• Stay informed

• Invest in quality property

• Choose tenants carefully

• Seek professional support

will continue to operate successfully.

If you’re unsure how these changes affect your property or portfolio, getting advice early is key.

Speak to a Local Lettings Specialist

If you’re a landlord in Newcastle, Durham, South Tyneside or the wider North East and want practical advice on how the Renters’ Rights Act affects you, we’re happy to help.

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