The Renters’ Rights Bill made its return to Parliament today, marking one of the final stages before it can officially become law. MPs will now take time to examine the most recent amendments introduced in the House of Lords before the legislation progresses to Royal Assent.
Eddie Hooker, the chief executive of mydeposits, described this stage as a “major turning point” for the private rental sector, highlighting the scale of changes it is expected to bring.
Although the Bill does not directly rewrite existing deposit laws, Hooker pointed out that the move towards open-ended periodic tenancies will significantly influence how deposits are managed in practice.
In the absence of fixed tenancy end dates, Hooker explained that both landlords and tenants will need to be especially clear on the steps involved in closing a tenancy and releasing deposits. This shift could alter the way many agreements are concluded across the country.
He stressed that his organisation will continue to ensure deposits are processed fairly and returned promptly at the end of tenancies, regardless of how tenancy agreements are structured in the future.
Hooker also emphasised that these changes will not only bring added responsibilities for landlords but will also enhance protections for tenants. He believes that both parties must be supported with clear instructions to avoid confusion when the new rules come into effect.
“What matters now,” he said, “is that there is straightforward guidance and a smooth process for implementation, so that everyone fully understands their rights and obligations under the new framework.”
He added that mydeposits remains committed to helping both landlords and tenants adapt to the transition, ensuring deposit protection continues to serve as a trusted safeguard throughout the sector.
Alongside these comments, the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) also voiced its views, calling for the Government to provide landlords with adequate preparation time before the Bill takes effect.
The association has asked for at least a six-month lead-in period to give landlords sufficient time to adjust to the new system and make the necessary changes to their management practices.
In a statement, the NRLA expressed frustration at the lack of clarity provided by ministers so far. They warned that landlords could be left in limbo if the Bill passes into law without any confirmed timelines for compliance.
The group argued that this uncertainty would undermine confidence in the rental market at a time when stability is crucial. Without knowing when to implement the new rules, landlords may struggle to plan effectively for their businesses.
The NRLA also pointed out that, like any other business sector, landlords rely on certainty in order to plan ahead. Clear and early communication from the Government is essential if the sector is to adjust successfully to such significant reforms.
They further cautioned that delaying this guidance could create unnecessary confusion among landlords and tenants alike, making the transition more difficult than it needs to be.
Concluding their remarks, the NRLA insisted that the Government act quickly to publish full details on when and how the Renters’ Rights Bill will be introduced. Only then, they argued, can the rental sector move forward with confidence and ensure a smooth shift into this new era of renting.
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