The Renters’ Rights Bill: What It Means for Landlords

And How Bridges Lettings Keeps You Protected

By Bridges Estate Agents | November 2025

The new Renters’ Rights Bill has arrived — and it’s reshaping the rental market across England.

Created to offer tenants greater protection and transparency, the legislation introduces significant updates to tenancy agreements, notice periods, rent reviews, repairs, and landlord registration. For landlords, this means one clear priority — staying compliant while maintaining control of your investment.

What the Renters’ Rights Bill Means for You

1. Goodbye Section 21 — Hello Fair Grounds for Possession

The biggest headline change: “no-fault” evictions under Section 21 are abolished.
All new and existing tenancies will move to a single system of periodic (rolling) tenancies, meaning tenants can leave with two months’ notice, while landlords can regain possession only through specific legal grounds — for example, wanting to sell the property or move in themselves.

For landlords, this means being fully aware of which grounds apply and how to serve valid notices under the updated Section 8 process.

2. Clearer Rules on Rent Increases

Rent can now only be increased once per year, and landlords must provide at least two months’ notice using a formal Section 13 notice.
Rent review clauses inside tenancy agreements will no longer be allowed, and tenants will have the right to challenge increases through the First-tier Tribunal if they believe the new rent is above market value.

In other words — rent reviews must be transparent, justified, and evidence based.

3. Stronger Standards and Faster Repairs

The Decent Homes Standard now applies to the private rented sector for the first time.
This means every rental home must be safe, warm, and in good condition.
In addition, elements of Awaab’s Law (previously introduced for social housing) now require landlords to address hazards such as damp and mould within strict timeframes.

Keeping up with repairs and inspections is no longer just good practice — it’s a legal duty.

4. A New National Landlord Register

Every landlord will soon need to register on a national portal, creating a transparent database of rented properties and landlords.
This aims to raise standards and allow tenants to verify that their landlord is properly registered.

Failure to register could prevent landlords from legally letting a property in future — making compliance essential.

5. New Tenant Protections

The Act also introduces several additional safeguards, including:

• A ban on rental bidding – landlords and agents must advertise a set rent and cannot encourage offers above the asking price.
• Restrictions on rent in advance – limiting requests for multiple months upfront.
• Stronger anti-discrimination rules – landlords can no longer refuse applicants purely because they have children or receive benefits.
• The right to request pets – tenants can now request permission to keep pets, and landlords can only refuse on reasonable grounds.

6. A New Redress System

A national Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will soon be introduced, offering tenants a clear route to resolve complaints without going through court.
For professional landlords and agents, this means greater accountability and record-keeping — but also a faster, fairer way to handle disputes when things go wrong.

That’s where Bridges Lettings comes in.

Our Fully Managed Service – Professional, Proactive, and Personal

For landlords seeking a truly hands-off experience, our Fully Managed Service handles everything — from tenant onboarding to move-out day — ensuring your property performs at its best while remaining fully compliant.

We manage every aspect with precision and care, giving you complete peace of mind that your property is in expert hands.

Our service includes:

• All tenant communication and day-to-day issue management
• Regular property inspections with detailed digital reports
• Deposit registration and full legislative compliance
• Serving of all tenancy notices, renewals, and extensions
• Proactive maintenance coordination to protect your investment
• Ongoing legal updates and professional advice as legislation evolves

With Bridges managing your property, you can enjoy a reliable income stream, happy tenants, and total compliance — without the stress of day-to-day management.

Bridges Protect – Complete Rent & Legal Protection

Letting your property should feel secure and straightforward. Bridges Protect offers total reassurance by safeguarding your rental income and providing full legal support should any issues arise.

It’s the simplest way to let with confidence, knowing you’re financially protected whatever happens.

Your protection includes:

• Guaranteed Rent Payments – Even if your tenant defaults, your rent is covered
• Full Legal Support – Including representation for eviction or possession proceedings
• Complete Case Management – From the first missed payment to resolution
• Total Peace of Mind – Your property, income, and legal position protected in full

With Bridges Protect, you’re not just letting — you’re letting with certainty.

Why Choose Bridges?

The Renters’ Rights Act has changed the rules, but with Bridges by your side, you’ll always stay ahead.
We ensure your property and processes remain fully compliant at every stage.

For more than 30 years, Bridges has helped landlords across Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire to:

• Maximise returns
• Maintain high standards
• Adapt confidently to every change in legislation

With our local expertise, dedicated lettings team, and industry leading protection, your investment couldn’t be in safer hands.