Key changes in rental legislation – and how we’re here to support you
The upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill brings the biggest shift to the private rental sector in years. For landlords across Chelmsford, it’s essential to be aware of what’s changing – and to feel confident that your property is in safe hands.
At Martin & Co Chelmsford, we’ve been supporting local landlords for over a decade with practical, proactive letting and management services. Here’s our guide to what’s coming and how we can help.
Say goodbye to Section 21 – understanding the new possession rules
Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions are being phased out. In future, landlords will need to rely on Section 8, which outlines specific grounds for possession – such as selling the property, needing to move in, or dealing with serious rent arrears.
Did you know? Around 65% of notices we already issue are under Section 8, so for most of our landlords, this won’t be a dramatic change.
How we help:
-
- We ensure all notices are legally sound and served correctly
- Our Rent & Legal Protection covers your court costs and lost rent
- You’ll receive expert advice and support throughout the process
Fixed-term tenancies ending – what it means
Under the new rules, all tenancies will be open-ended. Tenants can give two months’ notice at any time, and landlords can’t serve notice within the first 12 months.
But here in Chelmsford, where the average tenancy lasts 20 months, most landlords already benefit from long-term tenants.
Our local approach:
-
- We prioritise long-term lets and strong landlord-tenant relationships
- Our Privilege Landlord Service includes loyalty incentives for tenants
- We attract quality renters through targeted marketing and robust checks
Rent arrears threshold increasing
To start possession proceedings for rent arrears, the minimum overdue amount will increase from two to three months. At Martin & Co Chelmsford, fewer than 1% of our tenancies have arrears beyond 90 days – but when they do, we act fast.
Our support includes:
-
- Early intervention and repayment plans
- Real-time arrears tracking and updates
- Comprehensive insurance for legal costs and income protection
Pets in rental properties – know your rights
Tenants will now have the right to request pets – and landlords can’t unreasonably refuse. You can still say no on valid grounds, such as lease terms or building restrictions.
We’ll help you:
-
- Review and update tenancy agreements to reflect pet clauses
- Advise on when and how to say no, professionally and legally
- Arrange insurance for any potential pet-related damage
Fairer access to tenancies
It will become illegal to blanket-ban tenants receiving benefits or those with children. However, you’ll still be able to rely on affordability checks.
Our approach:
- We assess each tenant based on verified financial information
- You stay in control with informed, compliant decisions
- All lettings are managed transparently and fairly
Ombudsman membership now mandatory
All landlords must now join an approved ombudsman scheme for tenant disputes. If you use our Fully Managed Service, you’re already covered.
With us:
-
- Compliance is taken care of
- We handle complaints on your behalf
- You stay protected and stress-free
Awaab’s Law – speeding up repairs
Landlords now face tighter deadlines for tackling health and safety hazards:
- 14 days to investigate
- 7 days to repair
- 24 hours for emergencies
We take this seriously — and so should you.
How we stay compliant:
-
- Regular property inspections
- 24/7 maintenance reporting via PropertyFile
- Prompt contractor scheduling to meet legal timeframes
No more bidding wars – fixed rents only
Properties must now be marketed at a fixed asking price. Tenants can’t offer over the asking price, and rent in advance is capped at one month.
Here’s how we handle it:
-
- Data-led pricing to get you the best rent, fairly
- Clear, accurate property listings
- Professional negotiation without pressure
Why work with Martin & Co Chelmsford?
We’re proud to be part of the Martin & Co national network — but here in Chelmsford, we offer a truly local service, built on relationships and results. Whether you’re letting your first property or managing a portfolio, we’ll be by your side.
What you can expect:
-
- Expert lettings advice from our local team
- Transparent fees and no hidden costs
- Marketing that reaches the right tenants quickly
- A reliable partner through every legal change
Ready for the Renters’ Rights Bill? We are.
This legislation marks a new chapter for the rental market — but with Martin & Co Chelmsford in your corner, you’ll be ready for what’s ahead. We’ll guide you through every step and make sure your investment continues to deliver.
📞 Speak to our local team today
