How Can Landlords Stay Compliant with the New Renters’ Rights Bill?

It's an uncertain time for landlords, lots of negative reporting in the main; new legislation on the horizon, potential tax rises, EPC regulation changes - it's certainly a transitional period to navigate and as a result many landlords are exiting the market. The latest data shows every area of the UK saw an uplift (in July, August and September 2024) of properties for sale that had previously rented over the last 3 years.

As the rental market faces the biggest shake up since the Housing Act 1988 with the Renters’ Rights Bill, landlords may be feeling uncertain about their next steps. From eviction rules to property standards, there are significant changes that can impact your rental business. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the key aspects of the Bill and how you can ensure your properties remain compliant and profitable.

1. What is the Renters’ Rights Bill and How Does It Affect Landlords?

The Renters’ Rights Bill, which is expected to become law by 2025, introduces several changes to the way landlords can manage their properties. Key changes include the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, a limit on rent increases, and stricter property maintenance requirements. Understanding these changes is crucial for landlords looking to stay compliant and avoid penalties of up to £40,000.

2. How Can I Evict a Tenant After Section 21 is Abolished?

With Section 21 being removed, landlords must now rely on Section 8 evictions, which require specific legal grounds. This process is more complex and can take longer, making it important to have clear records of tenant behaviour. If you’re worried about how to manage evictions under the new rules, Propertynest offers comprehensive eviction support to guide you through each step of the process.

3. How Can I Ensure My Property Meets the New Standards?

The Bill introduces Awaab’s Law and extends the Decent Homes Standard to the private sector. This means stricter rules around damp, mould, and overall property safety. Landlords must now act quickly on repair requests to avoid fines. At Propertynest, we work closely with trusted contractors to ensure all repairs are done efficiently, helping you stay compliant with new regulations.

4. What Are the New Rules on Pets and Rent Increases?

The Renters’ Rights Bill strengthens tenants’ rights to keep pets, and rent increases are now capped at once per year, in line with market rates. Propertynest can help you navigate these changes by assisting with pet insurance and managing Section 13 notices to justify rent increases based on local market data, ensuring a smooth process without disputes.

5. Is Now a Good Time to Sell My Rental Property?

Recent data shows that the number of rental properties on the market is at its highest in 10 years, as many landlords are selling due to regulatory and financial pressures. However, for those considering staying in the market, there are still opportunities to make your properties profitable. Propertynest can help you decide whether to sell or continue managing your properties under the new rules, offering tailored advice and investor connections for off-market sales.

Conclusion: How Propertynest Can Help You Stay Compliant

Navigating the changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Bill might seem overwhelming, but Propertynest is here to help. Whether you’re managing multiple properties or considering selling, we provide expert guidance on how to sell off market to investors, stay compliant, protect your investments and keep your portfolio profitable. 

If you already have a property manager, ask yourself - are they doing enough to ensure you are compliant? Propertynest Leeds North is a professional independent lettings agency that provides a comprehensive and personal service to landlords.