Renters’ Rights Bill - The 60 seconds update for busy Landlords
TheHub@Druce- •
- 11 Mar 2025
Renters’ Rights Bill - The 60 seconds update for busy Landlords
Renters’ Rights Bill: The 60-second update for busy Landlords
The Renters' Rights Bill is currently in the Committee stage in the House of Lords as of February 26, 2025. It's set for detailed scrutiny over eight days. Expectations are high for Royal Assent and enactment post-Easter 2025, likely between July and October 2025. However, implementation of some provisions may be staggered.
Recent Developments: A significant announcement on January 14, 2025, marked its return to Parliament. Noteworthy updates include new rules to cap advance rent at one month and enhanced protection for bereaved families, showcasing ongoing refinements aimed at bolstering tenant security.
Key Changes & Provisions:
- Section 21 Evictions: The bill will abolish 'no fault' evictions, transitioning to periodic tenancies for all assured tenancies.
- Fair Possession Grounds: New safeguards will include a 12-month protected period at the start of tenancy and a 4-month notice requirement for landlords intending to move in or sell. The bill also raises the rent arrears threshold to 3 months and extends the notice period for arrears to 4 weeks.
- Protections Against Backdoor Eviction: Tenants can challenge excessive rent increases at the First-tier Tribunal, with rent hikes limited to once per year and requiring two months' notice.
- Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman: Mandatory for all landlords, this ombudsman can enforce remedies ranging from apologies to compensation, with potential civil penalties for non-compliance.
- Private Rented Sector Database: All landlords must register, with significant penalties for non-compliance.
- Pet Rights: The bill makes it easier for tenants to have pets, with landlords unable to unreasonably refuse requests, though they can require pet insurance.
- Decent Homes Standard: For the first time, this will apply to the private rented sector, with local councils empowered to enforce standards.
- Awaab’s Law Extension: Extends regulations to address hazards like damp and mold within the private rented sector.
- Rental Discrimination Prohibition: Makes it illegal to discriminate against tenants with children or those on benefits.
- Rental Bidding Prohibition: Landlords must publish asking rent and cannot accept bids above this amount.
- Rent in Advance Limits: Caps advance rent demands to one month’s rent, enhancing affordability for tenants.
- Enforcement and Investigatory Powers: Councils gain broader powers to issue penalties and conduct investigations.
Stay Informed
Stay Informed: As the bill progresses, stay tuned for more updates. For landlords and tenants alike, understanding these changes is crucial for navigating the future landscape of the UK rental market. For detailed insights and assistance, visit www.Druce.com or call + 44 207 183 6592
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