The Renters’ Rights Bill (often called the Renters’ Reform Bill) is moving through Parliament and is expected to receive Royal Assent in 2026. It will overhaul the private rented sector in England. Key measures include:

• Abolition of Section 21 and periodic tenancies: No-fault evictions will end. All future tenancies will be periodic.
• Fair rent rules: Rent increases limited to once per year; tenants can challenge excessive hikes.
• PRS Ombudsman and digital database: Ombudsman for complaints; landlords must register properties.
• Decent Homes Standard & Awaab’s Law: Serious hazards like damp and mould must be rectified quickly.
• Right to keep pets & anti-discrimination: Landlords must consider reasonable requests and cannot ban children/benefit recipients.
• Ban on rent bidding: Rent above advertised amount is illegal.

Letting agents are now directly responsible for compliance. Good agents monitor legislation, transition fixed-term agreements to periodic tenancies, manage rent reviews, register properties, liaise with the ombudsman, and ensure marketing and tenancy agreements comply with the new rules.