Following a largely procedural debate in the House of Commons after the Lords resolved most of the remaining issues last week, the Labour government is expected to outline its implementation plan in the coming weeks.
Nathan Emerson, Chief Executive of Propertymark, said:
“While there are still important details to finalise, it’s now beyond doubt that major change is coming. Letting agents and landlords must begin preparing now. Delaying action risks being left behind when the legislation takes effect.”
He added that Propertymark continues to call for clear guidance, realistic timelines, and practical solutions that reflect how agents and landlords operate in reality.
William Reeve, CEO of Goodlord, described the new law as “seminal,” adding:
“Three and a half years after it was first mentioned in a Queen’s Speech, this legislation is now finally making its way onto the statute books. It’s absolutely essential that anyone with their head still in the sand about it pulls it out sharpish.”
End of ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
The Renters Reform Coalition celebrated the passage of the bill, stating:
“No more amendments, no more debate – renters’ rights are coming.”
The change follows a six-year campaign that began in 2019 when then-Prime Minister Theresa May first proposed ending Section 21 no-fault evictions.
New Limits on Rent and Tenancy Terms
The bill restricts landlords from demanding more than one month’s rent in advance, a move designed to improve affordability for tenants. However, campaigners warn that broader challenges in rent affordability remain.
Coinciding with the bill’s passage, new data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that private rents rose by 5.5% year-on-year, hitting a record £1,354 per month in September 2025.
In another key reform, fixed-term tenancy agreements will be abolished. All future tenancies will become rolling periodic agreements, giving renters greater flexibility to move by providing just two months’ notice.
Pet-Friendly Rentals to Become the Norm
Landlords will now be required to consider requests for pets, and they will not be able to unreasonably refuse them.
Owen Sharp, CEO of Dogs Trust, welcomed the change, calling it a “game-changer” for pet-loving tenants:
“This step means the benefits of pet ownership are no longer exclusive to homeowners. But more must be done to ensure landlords feel confident renting to pet owners.”
End of Rental Bidding Wars and Discrimination
The bill also bans rental bidding wars, requiring landlords and agents to publish an asking price and prohibit accepting higher offers.
Additionally, it will be illegal for landlords or agents to discriminate against tenants receiving benefits or families with children.
Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages at UK Finance, described the legislation as a positive step:
“The scale of the reforms means the pace of implementation is critical. Lenders, landlords, tenants, and agents will need sufficient time to adjust so that the Bill delivers its intended benefits smoothly.”
