How it impacts you
The Renters’ Rights Act has officially become law, marking the biggest transformation in the private rental sector for a generation. Receiving Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, this landmark legislation delivers sweeping reforms that aim to create a fairer, safer, and more transparent rental market for England’s 11 million tenants and 2.3 million landlords.
At Martin & Co, we are prepared to support landlords and tenants as these changes take effect. Our teams are fully briefed on the new requirements and ready to guide you through the transition with clarity and confidence.
What the Act means for landlords
The Renters’ Rights Act will rebalance landlord-tenant relationships and bring in significant updates to tenancy law. This includes the abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions, the end of fixed-term tenancies, stronger repair obligations, and fairer rent protections.
While this represents a major shift, responsible landlords who already prioritise compliance and property standards will be well-positioned to adapt smoothly. Our experts are here to guide you through the updates and ensure you remain compliant every step of the way.
For landlords who prefer a more hands-off approach, our Fully Managed service can take care of day-to-day property management and compliance under the new legislation, while our Rent Guarantee scheme offers added reassurance that your rental income remains protected if tenants fall into arrears.
Key measures introduced by the Act
- Abolition of Section 21 evictions – landlords must now use updated Section 8 grounds for possession.
- End of fixed-term tenancies – all new tenancies become periodic, giving tenants flexibility to end tenancies with two months’ notice.
- Fairer rent rules – rent increases limited to once per year, with the right for tenants to appeal excessive rises.
- Right to request pets – landlords must not unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request.
- Ban on rental bidding – properties must be marketed at a fixed rent, ending rent bidding wars.
- New rules on discrimination – landlords and agents can no longer refuse applicants based on children or benefits.
- Decent Homes Standard – extended to the private sector to improve property safety and living conditions.
- Awaab’s Law – introduces strict repair timelines for serious hazards such as damp and mould (14 days to investigate, seven days to fix, and 24 hours for emergencies).
- Private Rented Sector Ombudsman – providing a fast, impartial way to resolve tenant complaints.
- Private Rented Sector Database – a new national register helping landlords demonstrate compliance and giving tenants transparent property information.
When will the changes take effect?
The Act is now law, but implementation will be phased. Ministers are expected to announce rollout dates shortly.
Core measures like the end of Section 21 and tenancy reform are likely to come first, followed by the new Ombudsman and PRS Database systems after a transition period.
A defining moment for the rental sector
Government ministers have described the Act as “the most significant leap forward in renters’ rights in a generation”.
At the same time, industry bodies such as the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) have emphasised the importance of implementation that works “fairly and proportionately” for responsible landlords.
This is a defining moment for the sector, one that raises standards while recognising the essential role landlords play in providing quality homes.
How Martin & Co can help
Whether you’re a single-property landlord or manage a growing portfolio, our local experts are ready to help you understand exactly how the Renters’ Rights Act affects your tenancies, rental income, and long-term strategy.
Contact your local Martin & Co branch to discuss your next steps and ensure your property remains compliant, protected and profitable under the new legislation.
We’ll make sure you’re prepared and supported for the changes ahead.
