New law improves renters’ rights in England

The Renters’ Rights Bill officially became law on the 27th October 2025, marking a transformative shift for millions of renters across England. At its heart, the legislation abolishes the controversial Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, a practice that has left countless tenants facing the threat of homelessness. This new law is part of the government’s broader Plan for Change aimed at redressing the balance between landlords and tenants, ensuring fairness and security in the private rental market.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer articulated the importance of secure housing by stating that “every family deserves the dignity of a safe and secure home.” He highlighted the plight of renters who have lived precariously under the previous system marked by insecurity. The Prime Minister added that “a secure home isn’t just bricks and mortar – it’s the foundation for opportunity, safety, and a better life.”

Secretary of State Steve Reed echoed the sentiment, proclaiming the Act as “the biggest leap forward in renters’ rights in a generation.” He pointed out that previous administrations had allowed injustice to persist in the sector, leading to a state where “millions [were] living in fear of losing their homes.” Reed emphasised that this new law signifies a major change, stating that “we're levelling the playing field between renters and landlords.”

The reforms include allowing tenants to give two months’ notice to end tenancies, establishing stronger grounds for landlords to repossess properties, and introducing measures to combat discriminatory practices. Future provisions will also tackle issues like rental bidding wars, enabling tenants to fairly negotiate terms including pet ownership without unreasonable refusals.

Tom Darling from the Renters’ Reform Coalition remarked that the Act represents a decade-long effort by activists to secure better rights for renters. He celebrated that once implemented, “section 21 will finally be consigned to the dustbin of history,” offering tenants newfound initiatives for recourse against landlords who neglect their duties.

Ben Twomey from Generation Rent hailed today as “a landmark day for renters” and affirmed that this legislation is a crucial step in restoring balance. He reflected on the enduring fears tenants faced, hoping this Act will empower renters in future negotiations. “The Government must now give clarity to renters and landlords by announcing an implementation date quickly,” he urged.

Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook reiterated the government's commitment to reforming a system that has long left tenants feeling vulnerable. “Our landmark Renters’ Rights Act delivers on that commitment,” he explained, asserting that the law fundamentally transforms the landscape of private renting in England.

With the Renters’ Rights Act now on the statute book, stakeholders across the sector anticipate its practical implications for both renters and landlords. Ben Beadle from the National Residential Landlords Association remarked on the necessity of certainty as the sector adapts to these changes, underscoring the importance of collaboration with the government to ensure effective implementation of the reforms.

As the nation awaits details on the roll-out of these reforms, the Act is seen as a pivotal moment in addressing the challenges of the private rented sector and providing essential security to tenants across England.