Renters’ Rights Bill becomes law

The Government’s landmark Renters’ Rights Bill has received Royal Assent, officially becoming law and paving the way for the most notable reform of the private rented sector in almost four decades. 

The new Renters’ Rights Act introduces a far-reaching set of changes, which include the abolition of fixed-term tenancies and Section 21 notices.

Commenting on the news Tom MacInnes, Director of Policy at Citizens Advice, said “The Renters’ Rights Act marks a huge step forward for private renters, who for too long have had few protections while landlords have held all the cards.

“Last year, our advisers helped 100 people a day with Section 21 ’no fault’ evictions which force people to uproot their entire lives and put them at risk of homelessness. No one should live in fear of losing their home, so seeing these become a thing of the past is very welcome.

“This long-awaited legislation will help level the private renting playing field, so people can have security in their homes and the confidence to challenge landlords without fear of retaliation.”

Sarah Elliott, Chief Executive of Shelter, said “The Renters’ Rights Act is the victory of a lifetime for renters who have fought for years for better protections. We are grateful to the government for making these landmark changes a reality.

“Once implemented, England’s 11 million renters will finally be unshackled from the gross injustice of no fault evictions that have made thousands homeless. And with protections from discrimination shored up, parents and renters on low incomes will be more able to get a foot in the door.

“We look forward to the government setting a date for when these changes will come into force, and when renters will finally get the security they deserve. Until then, we will be doing everything we can to help tenants understand their new rights.”

Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), said “After years of debate and uncertainty, today marks an important milestone for the private rented sector. With the Renters’ Rights Act now on the statute book, the sector needs certainty about the way forward.

“This is the most significant shake-up of the rental market in almost 40 years, and it is imperative that the new systems work for both tenants and responsible landlords. The NRLA stands ready to work with the Government to ensure the reforms are implemented in a way that is fair, proportionate and deliverable.

“The Government now needs to engage meaningfully with those providing the homes so desperately needed, to ensure implementation of the Bill is realistic and aligns with the practicalities of the market – not least the need for clarity well in advance of the next academic year for student housing.

“At a minimum, the sector needs six months’ notice before implementation to ensure a smooth and seamless transition, and the Government must provide certainty on this as soon as possible.

“The Government must also recognise the vital importance of a thriving private rented sector not only to meet tenant demand but to the national economy. It is essential that the Government’s reforms do not worsen the supply crisis by discouraging long term investment in the homes to rent that so many rely on.

“As the changes bed in, the Government should commit to ongoing monitoring of their impact and ensure its findings are published.”