The government has provided further details on the next stages of the Renters’ Rights Act, outlining a broad timetable for several key reforms that will be introduced over the coming years.
Following the initial implementation of major changes on 1 May, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has confirmed that additional measures will begin to roll out later this year, with several significant developments scheduled from late 2026 onwards.
The reforms form part of the government’s wider plans to reshape the private rented sector, improve housing standards and strengthen protections for tenants across England.
Private Rented Sector Database to Launch
One of the most significant upcoming changes is the introduction of a new Private Rented Sector Database.
Expected to begin rolling out gradually from late 2026, the database will create a central register of landlords and rental properties throughout England. The aim is to provide greater transparency for tenants while helping local authorities improve oversight of the sector.
Once operational in a particular area, tenants will be able to check whether their landlord is properly registered and access information about the property they are renting.
The government believes the database will make it easier for renters to understand who owns and manages their home, while also helping to identify landlords who fail to meet their legal obligations.
New Ombudsman Service for Renters
Alongside the database, the government plans to introduce a new independent Private Landlord Ombudsman.
The service is intended to provide tenants with a free and accessible route for resolving disputes without having to pursue costly and time-consuming court action.
Under the proposals, renters will be able to raise complaints about their landlord through the ombudsman, which will investigate cases and seek fair resolutions.
The scheme is also expected to benefit landlords by providing guidance, support and training on handling complaints effectively before they escalate into more serious disputes.
By encouraging early resolution, the government hopes to reduce conflict between landlords and tenants while improving standards across the sector.
Focus on Safer and More Energy-Efficient Homes
The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to improving the quality of privately rented homes.
Future regulations are expected to place greater emphasis on addressing issues such as damp, mould and other serious hazards that can affect tenant health and wellbeing.
Landlords will be required to respond more quickly when significant problems arise and take steps to ensure their properties meet higher living standards.
Energy efficiency will also remain a major focus, with further reforms designed to help tenants reduce household bills while creating more environmentally sustainable homes.
The exact timetable for some of these changes will depend on the outcome of ongoing consultations.
Awaab’s Law Could Be Extended to Private Rentals
Looking further ahead, the government is considering extending Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector.
Currently associated with social housing protections, the legislation requires landlords to deal promptly with dangerous conditions that could pose risks to tenants.
If extended, private landlords would face stricter requirements to address serious hazards within specified timeframes.
The government has indicated that a consultation on the proposals will be launched in the near future to determine how the rules could be implemented effectively.
Supporters argue that extending these protections would provide private renters with stronger safeguards against unsafe living conditions.
EPC C Target by 2030
The government has also reaffirmed its intention to improve the energy performance of rental properties.
Current proposals would require privately rented homes to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above by 2030, unless an exemption applies.
The objective is to improve insulation, reduce energy consumption and lower running costs for tenants.
While many landlords support the goal of improving energy efficiency, concerns remain about the cost of upgrades, particularly for older properties and homes that are difficult to retrofit.
Further guidance and consultation are expected before the final requirements are confirmed.
Decent Homes Standard Planned for the Private Sector
Another major reform is the planned introduction of a Decent Homes Standard for privately rented properties.
This would establish a clear benchmark for housing quality across the sector, setting minimum expectations for safety, maintenance and overall condition.
For the first time, private rented homes would be subject to standards similar to those already used in other housing sectors.
The government believes the measure will provide tenants with greater confidence that their home meets acceptable quality standards, while giving councils stronger powers to take action where landlords fail to comply.
The target date for introducing the standard across the private rented sector is 2035.
What It Means for Landlords and Tenants
The latest timetable confirms that the Renters’ Rights Act is only the beginning of a much broader programme of reform.
Over the next decade, landlords are likely to face increasing responsibilities relating to property standards, energy efficiency, registration requirements and dispute resolution processes.
For tenants, the reforms are designed to improve transparency, strengthen protections and raise housing quality throughout the sector.
While many of the changes are still subject to consultation and phased implementation, the direction of travel is becoming increasingly clear. The government is seeking to create a private rented sector that is safer, more accountable and better equipped to meet the needs of modern renters.
As further details emerge, both landlords and tenants will need to stay informed to ensure they are prepared for the changes ahead.
Download NOW
4 Simple Steps To Becoming Wealthy Through Property