The Renters’ Rights Bill is back in the spotlight, with the government confirming it will return to the House of Lords on 14 October 2025. This marks the final stage before it can become law, and landlords now only have a matter of weeks to prepare.
What’s changing?
While the finer details are still being finalised, most of the headline reforms remain in place:
• Section 21 abolished – landlords will no longer be able to end tenancies without specified grounds.
• New possession grounds introduced – repossession will still be possible, but only under defined circumstances.
• All tenancies with periodic – fixed terms will be replaced by rolling agreements.
• Rent-in-advance restrictions – limits on how much rent can be requested upfront.
Some of the proposed amendments, such as allowing a separate pet deposit, reducing the 12-month re-let restriction after a failed sale, were rejected by the government. That means landlords will need to operate within tighter parameters than many had hoped.
When will it happen?
The Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent this autumn, with certain reforms taking effect almost immediately. Others, such as the creation of a national landlord database and a potential Ombudsman scheme, will follow after a transition period.
What does this mean for landlords?
These are significant changes to how the private rental sector operates. For landlords, it means:
• Reviewing tenancy agreements and processes to ensure compliance.
• Understanding the new repossession grounds clearly before they come into force.
• Preparing for tighter rules on pets, rent increases, and re-letting.
• Factoring in the practical impact on portfolio management and income planning.
Our take at FSS Property:
While there’s been debate about whether more balance was needed, one thing is certain: the Bill is coming, and landlords need to be ready. At FSS, we’re experts in Residential Lettings with over 40 years of experience. We have seen many changes within the Residential Lettings sector and are ideally placed to continue to guide you through these changes.
If you’re a landlord with properties, in Harrogate, across North Yorkshire, or into West Yorkshire (including Ilkley and North Leeds), now is the time to seek advice. The sooner you prepare, the smoother the transition will be.
Please feel free to contact either Senior Partner, Simon Croft at simon.croft@fssproperty.co.uk or Associate Partner, Michael Lebbon at Michael.Lebbon@fssproperty.co.uk to discuss any queries you may have.
Contact us or our lettings team on 01423 501211 for clear advice tailored to your situation.