Renters’ Rights Is Closer Than You Think - What Landlords Need to Prepare Now
3 minute read
Renters’ Rights Is Closer Than You Think - What Landlords Need to Prepare Now
This Isn’t Something to Look at “Later”
Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been speaking to a lot of landlords about the same thing.
Not in a panicked way - just practical conversations.
The common theme?
“I know changes are coming… I’m just not sure what I actually need to do.”
And that’s fair.
Because a lot of what’s being shared out there is either too vague or too dramatic.
So I want to break this down in a simple, realistic way - based on what we’re actually seeing on the ground.
The Market Has Already Shifted
Before we even get into legislation, the rental market itself has changed.
Tenants have more choice again.
They’re taking longer to decide.
They’re viewing multiple properties.
And they’re less willing to settle.
What used to take a few days can now take a few weeks.
So already, things like pricing and presentation matter more than they did even a year ago.
Now Layer On The Structural Changes
This is where landlords need to start paying attention.
Over the next few months, a few key changes will come in:
1. All Tenancies Will Be Periodic
There will no longer be fixed end dates.
Tenants can stay in the property until they decide to give notice, usually with two months’ notice.
That changes how you plan ahead.
2. Rent Reviews Will Become More Formal
Rent increases will need to be done properly using a Section 13 notice.
Not by email.
Not by a quick conversation.
If it’s not done correctly, tenants can legally ignore the increase.
3. No-Fault Evictions Are Being Removed
Section 21 is going.
Which means if something goes wrong, you’ll need to rely on Section 8.
And that process is slower.
In some cases, it could mean months before you’re able to take action, especially if rent arrears are involved.
This Is Where Landlords Can Get Caught Out
None of these changes on their own are unmanageable.
But together, they create a different environment.
One where:
• Timing becomes less predictable
• Processes need to be followed properly
• And small mistakes take longer to fix
That’s the real shift.
The Landlords Who Will Be Fine
I’ll be honest - not every landlord needs to worry.
If your property is:
• Well maintained
• Properly managed
• Priced correctly
• And structured well
You’ll likely continue without major issues.
Where You Need To Be Careful
It’s the landlords who are slightly “in between” that need to pay attention.
For example:
• Properties that are a bit tired
• Tenancies that haven’t been reviewed in a while
• Rent that hasn’t been properly assessed
• Or processes that are a bit informal
These are the situations where small gaps can become bigger problems over time.
This Is About Preparation, Not Panic
One thing I want to be really clear on:
There’s no need to panic.
Tenants themselves haven’t been widely educated on these changes yet.
So we’re not about to see an overnight shift in behaviour.
But that doesn’t mean it should be ignored either.
The landlords who prepare now will find this transition much easier than those who leave it too late.
So What Should You Do Now?
This is the question I’m being asked the most.
And the honest answer is - it depends on your property, your tenant, and your long-term plans.
But broadly, it’s about:
• Reviewing where your property sits in the current market
• Making sure your processes are structured properly
• Thinking ahead about flexibility and control
Get a FREE Valuation
If you’re also starting to think about whether to hold, adjust, or even sell, it’s worth understanding your position properly.
We’ll give you a clear, honest view of what your property could achieve in today’s market - and help you decide what makes the most sense for you.
Let’s Talk It Through
Some landlords will hold and adjust.
Some will restructure.
And some will decide this is the right time to sell.
All of those are valid - as long as the decision is informed.
If there’s anything specific you’d like to talk through, I’m always happy to help.
Venessa Afonja
Director VA Sales and Lettings
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