What is the Renters Rights Act?
The Renters' Rights Act, formerly known as the Renters' Reform Bill, was passed into law in 2025. It fundamentally changes the relationship between landlords and tenants across England, introducing a set of protections that were long overdue.
The key change most people have heard about is the abolition of Section 21 no-fault evictions. Under the old rules, a landlord could issue a Section 21 notice to evict a tenant without needing to give any reason. That is no longer the case.
Section 21 abolished - what does this mean for you?
From the commencement date of the Act, landlords can only evict tenants using a Section 8 notice, which requires them to cite a specific legal ground - such as serious rent arrears, damage to the property, or the landlord genuinely needing to move back in.
This is a major win for tenants who previously had little security, particularly those in the private rented sector who could be asked to leave at two months notice with no reason given. You now have far greater stability in your home.
Fixed-term tenancies are being replaced
All new tenancies are now periodic from the outset - meaning there is no fixed end date. You can give two months notice to leave at any time, giving you flexibility. Landlords cannot use a fixed term to lock you in.
Existing fixed-term tenancies will transition to the new system once they come up for renewal or reach their end date, so everyone will eventually be on the same footing.
Rent increases - new rules
Landlords are now restricted to one rent increase per year, and increases must be based on market rates. You will receive at least two months written notice of any proposed increase, and you have the right to challenge it through a First-tier Tribunal if you believe it is above market value.
The practice of mid-tenancy rent hikes or 'take it or leave it' letters is no longer lawful without following the proper procedure.
The Decent Homes Standard
For the first time, the Decent Homes Standard - previously only applicable to social housing - now applies to the private rented sector. Your home must be in a reasonable state of repair, free from serious hazards, and with adequate heating and insulation.
Local councils have been given new powers to enforce these standards and levy fines against non-compliant landlords.
How StepUp Properties approaches these changes
At StepUp Properties, we have been fully compliant with the Renters Rights Act since it came into force. We proactively update all our tenancy agreements, rent increase notices, and management procedures to stay ahead of the legislation - not just to meet it at the minimum.
If you have any questions about your rights under the Act, or how these changes affect your current tenancy, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are always happy to talk things through.
Have questions? We're here to help.
Our team has decades of experience in the North London property market. If anything in this article raises questions about your own situation, give us a call or drop us a message.