The rental market in Solihull is about to see some important changes. The government’s proposed Renters’ Rights Bill aims to make renting fairer and more secure for tenants – but it also brings new responsibilities for landlords.
At Martin & Co Solihull, we’ve been following the progress of this legislation closely. While it’s designed to raise standards across the sector, many of the changes will also affect how landlords manage their properties day-to-day.
Here’s a clear, down-to-earth look at what’s likely to change, what it means for you as a Solihull landlord, and how you can stay ahead of the curve.
Ending Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
One of the biggest parts of the Renters’ Rights Bill is the end of Section 21 – often known as “no-fault” evictions.
At the moment, Section 21 allows landlords to regain possession of their property at the end of a tenancy without having to give a reason. Under the new rules, that will no longer be possible.
Instead, landlords will need to use a new list of reasonable grounds for possession, such as:
- wanting to sell the property
- moving back in yourself or for a family member
- serious rent arrears or antisocial behaviour
It means that tenancy agreements will need to be managed more carefully, and record-keeping will be essential. Clear communication with tenants, up-to-date paperwork, and proper documentation will help ensure that any future possession process runs smoothly.
The key message here is: you’ll still be able to take back your property, but you’ll need a valid reason and solid evidence to support it.
The move to rolling tenancies
The Bill proposes replacing fixed-term tenancies with rolling (periodic) agreements.
This would mean that a tenancy continues indefinitely until the tenant chooses to leave or the landlord seeks possession for one of the approved reasons. For many tenants, that brings flexibility and stability.
For landlords, it means a shift in planning. Fewer fixed terms might feel less predictable, but the benefit is that you’ll also have longer-term tenants who tend to take better care of their homes.
At Martin & Co Solihull, we’re helping landlords adapt by reviewing tenancy structures, updating documentation, and planning for smoother transitions.
Rent reviews and notice periods
Under the new legislation, landlords will be allowed to increase rent only once per year, and they must give at least two months’ notice before the change takes effect.
This creates more transparency for tenants but also highlights the need for landlords to set rent accurately from the start. Pricing fairly and keeping up with market trends will help avoid financial strain later in the tenancy.
Solihull’s rental demand has remained strong through 2024 and into 2025. Average rents have risen steadily across family homes in areas like Shirley, Knowle and B91, meaning there’s still healthy potential for landlords to achieve good returns – as long as rent levels reflect current local values.
We regularly monitor Solihull’s market trends and can provide landlords with up-to-date data to help make confident pricing decisions.
Stronger property standards
The government has made clear that raising property standards is a major goal. The Renters’ Rights Bill will tighten enforcement on maintenance, damp, mould, and insulation issues.
Local authorities will be given greater powers to investigate and fine landlords who fail to keep homes safe and habitable.
For most landlords in Solihull, this won’t mean major changes – many already keep their properties in excellent condition. But it does underline the importance of regular inspections and fast response times when repairs are needed.
It’s also worth keeping an eye on future updates to the Decent Homes Standard, which is expected to apply to the private rented sector for the first time.
Our managed landlords already benefit from routine property checks, detailed maintenance logs, and approved local contractors – all designed to meet and exceed these standards.
A new landlord property register
The Bill will introduce a national landlord register, requiring all landlords to register their properties through a new online portal.
This will act as proof that your property meets safety and compliance standards – such as valid gas and electrical certificates, smoke alarms, and deposit protection.
The idea is to improve transparency for tenants, but it also offers advantages for landlords. Having all your compliance documents in one place means less paperwork and clearer accountability.
However, failing to register could lead to fines or restrictions on letting – so it’s important to stay on top of deadlines once the system is in place.
Pets and tenancy rights
The Renters’ Rights Bill also makes it easier for tenants to request permission to keep pets.
Landlords will still have the right to say no if there’s a good reason – such as the property not being suitable, or the building’s lease forbidding pets – but you’ll need to respond formally and within a set timeframe.
You’ll also be able to require pet insurance to cover any potential damage, which helps balance the change.
Given Solihull’s family-friendly appeal and abundance of green space, we expect more tenants to request permission for pets. Being open-minded here could broaden your tenant pool and encourage longer-term tenancies.
Stricter penalties for non-compliance
Alongside new rights for tenants, there will be tougher enforcement for landlords who break the rules.
Local authorities will have more power to issue fines for:
- failing to register a property
- ignoring repair notices
- charging unlawful fees
For landlords who already follow the rules, these changes bring a level playing field. They’re designed to raise the overall professionalism of the private rental sector – something Martin & Co Solihull fully supports.
What this means for the Solihull market
Solihull’s rental market remains one of the most robust in the West Midlands. High employment levels, excellent schools and transport links continue to attract long-term tenants.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is expected to increase tenant confidence, which could in turn stabilise occupancy rates. For landlords who maintain good standards and value relationships with their tenants, this shift could prove positive.
Professionalism, transparency and communication will be key themes moving forward – qualities that already define much of Solihull’s private rental market.
How to prepare now
Although the Bill isn’t law yet, it’s wise to start preparing early. Here are some practical steps:
- Review your tenancy agreements to make sure they’ll comply once Section 21 is removed.
- Check your property documentation, including EPCs, Gas Safety and EICR certificates.
- Plan ahead for rent reviews, ensuring notice periods are clear and realistic.
- Keep communication open with tenants to build trust and prevent disputes.
- Work with a letting agent who understands the legislation and can manage compliance for you.
At Martin & Co Solihull, we’ve been helping landlords adapt to regulatory changes for over 30 years. Our experienced lettings team can guide you through every stage – from tenancy management and inspections to compliance checks and property marketing.
Final thoughts
Change always brings uncertainty, but it can also bring opportunity. The Renters’ Rights Bill will modernise how landlords and tenants work together – and for those who plan ahead, it can strengthen relationships and stability in the long term.
At Martin & Co Solihull, we believe clarity and professionalism are the best ways to protect your investment. By staying informed and acting early, you can continue to let your property with confidence.
If you’d like tailored advice on how these new rules could affect your property, our local team is here to help.
