The House of Lords has confirmed that the Report Stage for the Renters’ Rights Bill is scheduled for 1st July. On the same day, the Bill is expected to undergo its Third Reading, which is anticipated to be non-contentious.
Following tradition, once it passes through the Lords, the Bill will return to the House of Commons for further consideration. While there’s a possibility of prolonged discussion if major disagreements arise, this appears unlikely.
Both the Conservative and Labour parties have expressed general support for the contents of the Bill, suggesting there will be minimal opposition. This means the legislation is highly likely to pass into law.
The expected timeline indicates that Royal Assent will be granted before Parliament’s summer recess, which begins on 22nd July. Once enacted, this Bill will bring significant reform to the private rental market in England.
The Renters’ Rights Bill proposes sweeping changes aimed at enhancing tenant protection while introducing new responsibilities for landlords.
One of the key reforms is the abolition of Section 21, often referred to as ‘no-fault evictions’. Landlords will only be able to evict tenants for specific, legitimate reasons.
Fixed-term tenancies are set to be replaced by periodic tenancies. This change will give tenants greater flexibility and the ability to leave a property with two months’ notice.
The Bill will also regulate rent increases, limiting them to one per year. Landlords must give at least two months’ notice and provide justification for any increase.
To prevent bidding wars, the legislation will ban landlords and agents from encouraging or accepting offers above the listed rent.
A Decent Homes Standard will be applied to private rental properties, ensuring minimum living conditions are upheld across the sector.
Another key element is the application of Awaab’s Law to private rentals, compelling landlords to fix hazards within a specified timeframe.
A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will be introduced to mediate disputes between landlords and tenants, providing a fair and accessible resolution process.
All landlords will be required to register themselves and their rental properties in a newly created database. This is intended to promote transparency and accountability.
The Bill also introduces anti-discrimination measures, preventing landlords and agents from rejecting applicants based on benefit status or family composition.
Finally, tenants will gain the right to request permission to keep pets in their rented homes, with landlords expected to grant reasonable requests.
Overall, the Renters’ Rights Bill marks a significant shift towards a more tenant-focused rental sector, promoting fair treatment, safer homes, and greater stability.
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