Renters’ Rights Act Passes: What It Means for Landlords and Tenants!

Yesterday marked a major milestone for the private rental sector, as the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 officially became law. This long-awaited legislation brings the most significant reform to the rental market in decades, aiming to create greater fairness, stability, and accountability for both tenants and landlords.

At Match Estates, we welcome these changes and want to help our clients , whether you’re a landlord, tenant, or investor, you need to understand what the new rules mean in practice.

1. End of ‘No-Fault’ Evictions

One of the biggest changes is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions. This means landlords can no longer ask tenants to leave without giving a valid reason. While this strengthens tenant security, landlords can still regain possession in legitimate cases, such as selling a property or needing it for family use.

2. Periodic Tenancies for Greater Flexibility

Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies are being replaced with rolling periodic tenancies. This gives renters more flexibility to move when needed and helps landlords maintain ongoing agreements without constant renewals.

3. Rent Controls and Challenges

Rent increases will now be limited to once per year, and tenants can challenge rises that are above market value through a tribunal. This brings more predictability to renting and encourages fair pricing across the sector.

4. Banning Rental Bidding and Large Upfront Payments

The Act bans rental bidding, meaning landlords and agents can no longer accept offers above the listed rent. It also restricts large upfront rent payments, ensuring a more transparent and accessible rental process for all.

5. Pets and Fair Consideration

Tenants now have the right to request a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. This reflects the growing demand for pet-friendly homes and promotes a more inclusive rental market.

6. Raising Housing Standards

The Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law have been extended to the private rented sector. This means landlords must address serious issues such as damp, mould, and structural hazards within specific timeframes — ensuring safer, healthier living conditions.

7. Greater Accountability and Support

A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman and national landlord database will make it easier to resolve disputes and maintain transparency. These changes aim to raise professional standards and strengthen trust between tenants, landlords, and agents.

What Happens Next?

Not all elements of the Act take effect immediately. The government will roll out the reforms in stages, with the first changes — including new enforcement powers — expected from December 2025.

At Match Estates, we’re committed to keeping our clients informed and compliant as these updates come into force. Whether you’re reviewing tenancy agreements, planning property investments, or managing existing tenancies, our team is here to help you navigate the transition smoothly.

If you’d like personalised advice about how the Renters’ Rights Act affects you, get in touch with us at www.match-estates.co.uk — we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Lee & Matthew

Directors, Match Estates