The Renters’ Rights Act has now passed into law, and it brings some of the biggest changes to the private rented sector in over 30 years.
If you’re a landlord in Oxford, it’s essential to understand how these changes will affect your legal responsibilities, tenancy agreements and long-term strategy.
In this guide, we break down what the Act means for you – and offer practical landlord advice in Oxford to help you stay compliant and prepared.
What is the Renters’ Rights Act?
The Renters’ Rights Act is the Government’s response to long-standing calls for reform in the private rental sector. It’s designed to give tenants more security and improve housing standards, while also making it easier for landlords to deal with serious issues like anti-social behaviour.
The Act applies across England, including Oxford, and affects nearly every aspect of the rental process – from contracts to notice periods.
Key changes Oxford landlords need to know
1. Section 21 is set to be abolished
The end of so-called “no-fault evictions” is one of the most significant changes.
- Landlords will no longer be able to serve Section 21 notices to end a tenancy without giving a specific reason
- Instead, Section 8 grounds for possession will be updated and expanded
- Landlords will still be able to regain possession for reasons such as selling the property or serious rent arrears
This change is designed to give tenants more stability, but it does mean landlords will need to keep clear records and follow correct procedures when ending a tenancy.
2. All tenancies will move to a single system
The Act replaces Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) with a new Assured Period Tenancy (APT) that:
- Has no fixed end date (periodic tenancies by default)
- Allows tenants to give two months’ notice at any time
- Requires landlords to give a valid reason to end the tenancy
This flexibility is likely to appeal to tenants – especially in Oxford’s competitive market – but it may mean shorter tenancy lengths unless landlords take steps to retain tenants.
3. Stronger rules around property standards
The government will introduce a Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector, similar to the one already in place for social housing.
Landlords will be expected to ensure:
- Properties are free from serious hazards
- Kitchens, bathrooms and heating systems are up to standard
- Homes are warm, safe and in good repair
In a city like Oxford, where housing stock varies widely, this could affect older properties in particular – so now is the time to review your maintenance schedule and compliance.
4. A new national landlord portal and property register
Landlords will be required to register their properties through a national online portal, which will:
- Act as a central record of landlord compliance
- Make it easier for tenants to check if a property is legal and safe
- Help local authorities enforce standards
This change aims to professionalise the sector – and could expose non-compliant landlords. Keeping accurate records of certificates, repairs, and tenancy information will be more important than ever.
What does this mean for Oxford landlords?
As one of the UK’s most high-demand rental markets, Oxford will be directly impacted by the Renters’ Rights Act.
- Tenants may stay for shorter periods unless incentives are in place
- Older properties may require upgrades to meet the new Decent Homes Standard
- Landlords will need to be clearer and more transparent about their processes
The positive news? Good landlords have little to fear. If your property is well-managed, legally compliant and fairly priced, you’re likely to remain in strong demand.
Landlord advice: what to do now
- Review your tenancy agreements – especially if you use ASTs
- Check property conditions and schedule any upgrades ahead of compliance deadlines
- Keep records up to date for EPCs, gas safety, deposit protection and repairs
- Speak to a letting agent about how to prepare for the transition and keep tenants informed
If you’re unsure where to start, we can help.
Get expert letting support in Oxford
At Martin & Co Oxford, we work with landlords across the city to stay up to date, stay compliant, and stay profitable – no matter how the rules change.
We can:
- Review your tenancy terms
- Manage your property in line with the new legislation
- Help you avoid fines or legal challenges
- Find quality tenants and keep them long-term
Book a free landlord consultation or explore our letting services in Oxford.
