The private rented sector is changing.
The government’s Renters’ Rights Bill is expected to become law in 2025. When it does, it will bring significant changes to the way landlords and tenants work together.
For landlords in Worcester, it’s a good time to get ahead. This legislation is designed to raise standards, improve tenant security, and make property management more transparent. If you already work with a trusted agent or follow best practice, many of the changes may feel like an extension of what you’re already doing.
Here’s what’s changing, and how Martin & Co Worcester can help.
Section 21 will be removed
One of the most widely reported changes in the Bill is the end of ‘no fault’ evictions. Section 21 currently allows landlords to regain possession without giving a reason, as long as correct notice is served.
Once the Bill becomes law, this route will be removed. Landlords will need to use Section 8, which requires valid grounds – for example, serious rent arrears or anti-social behaviour. New grounds are also being introduced to allow landlords to sell or move back into the property.
What this means: You’ll still be able to regain possession, but the reason must meet legal criteria. We can help make sure your paperwork and processes are compliant, so you’re protected if a tenancy needs to end.
All tenancies will become periodic
The new law will abolish fixed-term tenancies. Instead, all tenancies will automatically be periodic from the start, meaning they run on a monthly basis with no fixed end date.
Tenants will be able to give two months’ notice at any point. Landlords will also be able to give notice, using a valid Section 8 ground.
What this means: It’s a more flexible system for tenants, and it puts more emphasis on regular communication and up-to-date documentation. It also makes consistent property maintenance more important, as tenants may stay for shorter or longer periods depending on circumstances.
A new minimum housing standard
The Renters’ Rights Bill will introduce a Decent Homes Standard for all rented homes — not just in the social housing sector. The aim is to ensure every rental property is safe, in good repair, and fit to live in.
The final version of the standard is still to be confirmed, but early drafts suggest it will include:
- Working heating and insulation
- Safe electrical systems
- No serious damp or mould
- Modern kitchen and bathroom facilities
What this means: Most landlords will already meet many of these standards. However, properties with older systems, poor EPC ratings or unresolved maintenance issues may need upgrades.
Our team can arrange a full property health check and highlight any areas to address before the rules are enforced.
Landlords must register on a digital portal
The new legislation will introduce a national Property Portal. Landlords will need to register and provide key documents, including gas safety records, electrical certificates, and EPCs.
The aim is to improve accountability and help tenants and councils check that legal responsibilities are being met.
What this means: The portal will make good record keeping essential. If you work with Martin & Co Worcester, we’ll upload and manage all your documents for you. You’ll be able to rely on us to keep your property profile complete and compliant.
A new way to handle complaints
The Bill will also introduce a mandatory Ombudsman scheme. All landlords — including those who manage properties themselves — will need to register.
The Ombudsman will offer tenants a formal way to raise complaints and seek resolution outside of court.
What this means: You’ll need to respond to any tenant complaints in line with a clear code of conduct. Our property management service includes full complaint handling, meaning we’ll respond quickly and fairly on your behalf — and ensure you’re meeting legal expectations.
Rent increases must follow a formal process
The new rules will limit rent increases to once per year. Increases will need to be fair, clearly communicated, and open to challenge through a tribunal if necessary.
This doesn’t mean you can’t adjust rent in line with market trends, but it does mean the reasoning needs to be clear and documented.
What this means: We can help you assess local market conditions, benchmark rents, and issue formal notices. That way, you protect your income while remaining fair and compliant.
How Martin & Co Worcester is supporting landlords
The Renters’ Rights Bill brings change, but with support from a professional agent, it doesn’t need to bring added pressure.
At Martin & Co Worcester, we help landlords meet legal obligations, reduce risk, and improve tenant satisfaction. Our team are experts in the private rental sector, and we’re already working with landlords to prepare for what’s coming.
Here’s how we can support you through the changes:
- We’ll review your current tenancies and update your agreements in line with the new rules.
- We’ll manage all safety and compliance checks, including energy performance and property conditions.
- We’ll register your property on the new portal once live — and keep everything up to date.
- We’ll handle all tenant communication, legal notices, rent reviews, and complaints.
- We’ll guide you through every change with straightforward advice from a local team you can trust.
Whether you’re a hands-on landlord looking for support, or prefer a fully managed service, we tailor our approach to suit you.
What should you do now?
There’s no need to panic – the changes aren’t immediate. But there are a few sensible steps you can take now.
Start by reviewing your tenancy agreements and property documents. If anything’s out of date or missing, now is the time to put it right. Think about the condition of your property, and whether there are any improvements you’ve been putting off.
Most importantly, consider whether managing everything yourself is the best option as legislation grows more complex.
If you’d like support, advice, or simply a second opinion, we’re here to help.
Talk to your local experts
We’ve been helping landlords in Worcester for many years – and as part of a national network of property professionals, we bring insight, experience and reliability to everything we do.
With Martin & Co Worcester, you get more than a letting agent. You get a partner who knows the market, understands the law, and makes things easier for you every step of the way.
To speak to us about how the Renters’ Rights Bill could affect your property, or to book a free lettings review,
