"With the new legislation coming in, some agreements may not yet reflect the updated rules, so it's important to check for clauses around fixed terms and notice periods."
- Natalie Peacock - Rogers and Norton
Renters are being urged to check their rights before sweeping new laws transform the rental market from May, with millions of tenants set to be affected by the incoming Renters' Rights Act.
Natalie Peacock, a housing law expert at Rogers and Norton, says the reforms are long overdue. "For years, there have been issues across the private rental sector, with landlords feeling restricted and tenants facing insecurity, poor housing standards and difficulty challenging unfair treatment," she said. "The Renters' Rights Act is designed to create a fairer and more balanced system for everyone involved."
Abolition of no-fault evictions
Among the most significant changes is the removal of Section 21 no-fault evictions. Once the Act comes into force, landlords will no longer be able to ask tenants to leave without a valid reason.
"At the moment, tenants can do everything right and still be forced to leave with just two months' notice," Peacock explained. "I regularly see renters caught off guard, suddenly having to find somewhere new, cover unexpected moving costs and, in some cases, relocate away from work or their children's schools."
The consequences extend beyond individual households, she added. "This also places pressure on local authorities, as many tenants who lose their homes end up seeking support from councils. Removing no-fault evictions not only protects renters but could also help relieve pressure on social housing."
Limited grounds for possession
Alongside scrapping Section 21, the Act introduces clearer, limited grounds for possession, covering scenarios such as selling the property, moving back in, rent arrears or anti-social behaviour.
"This should give renters greater confidence that they won't be forced out without good reason," Peacock said. She cautioned, however, that some provisions still warrant close attention. "Some grounds, such as landlords selling or moving back in, may raise concerns about misuse. But the key difference is that renters will have longer notice periods and the ability to challenge notices if they believe they're not genuine."
Limits on rent increases
The legislation will restrict rent increases to once per year and give tenants the right to challenge rises they consider unreasonable. "This is a crucial step in addressing affordability," Peacock noted. "Landlords will need to ensure any increases are fair and justifiable, rather than pricing tenants out without scrutiny."
Improved housing standards
The Act also strengthens protections for renters in poor conditions, including safeguards against retaliatory eviction when repair issues are raised. "I've worked with tenants who are afraid to report serious repair issues because they worry about eviction or rent increases," she said. "These reforms should give renters the confidence to speak up, knowing they are better protected when challenging poor standards."
What renters should do now
With the changes approaching, Peacock has two clear pieces of advice. First, review tenancy agreements carefully. "In a competitive market, it's easy to rush into signing an agreement, but that's where disputes often arise," she explained. "With the new legislation coming in, some agreements may not yet reflect the updated rules, so it's important to check for clauses around fixed terms and notice periods."
Second, keep clear records of rent payments. "With no-fault evictions being removed, landlords may rely more on rent arrears as a route to possession," she said. "Having proper records and receipts can help protect tenants if any disagreements arise."
She was also keen to address a common misconception. "The Act doesn't mean landlords can't evict tenants at all. It simply ensures there must be a valid reason, rather than leaving renters living under constant threat of eviction."
