Renters Reform Bill Becomes Law

What It Means for Landlords and How Switch Properties Is Preparing

The Renters Reform Bill has now received Royal Assent, officially becoming law and setting the stage for the most significant overhaul of the private rented sector in decades. For landlords, this means a series of new legal obligations, tenancy structures, and compliance standards.

At Switch Properties, we’re already preparing for these changes to protect our landlords, maintain compliance, and keep your investment running smoothly under the new framework.

What’s Changing Under the Renters Reform Bill

1. End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions

Section 21 will be abolished meaning landlords can no longer end a tenancy without a reason. Possession will only be possible under updated Section 8 grounds, such as selling the property, moving back in or where tenants have serious or repeated rent arrears.

Landlords will still be able to regain possession but the process will now be more structured and evidence based.

2. All Tenancies Becoming Periodic

Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced with rolling monthly tenancies.

Tenants will be able to give two months’ notice at any time whereas landlords will need to rely on a valid Section 8 ground (for example, to sell the property or move back in).

This removes the ability for landlords to issue notice without cause but provides new grounds to protect their position.

3. New Rules for Rent Increases

Rent increases will be limited to once per year and must be served using a formal Section 13 notice.

Tenants will have the right to challenge rent rises through the First-tier Tribunal if they believe the increase is excessive. Switch will ensure rent reviews are handled correctly and supported by local market data.

4. A New Landlord Register and Property Standards

A mandatory landlord portal will be introduced requiring all rented properties to be registered and compliant with safety and standards rules.

This aims to improve transparency in the private rental sector and ensure that all landlords meet the same legal requirements.

5. Pets and Tenant Rights

Tenants will have the right to request a pet and landlords must not unreasonably refuse.

Landlords can request pet damage insurance to cover potential costs. Switch will ensure this is reflected in future tenancy agreements and managed fairly on both sides.

How Switch Properties Is Protecting Our Landlords

As new legislation takes effect Switch Properties is taking proactive measures to protect clients and ensure a smooth transition.

Enhanced Tenant Referencing
We are strengthening our vetting process beyond standard checks, including open-banking verification, employer confirmation, and affordability analysis to reduce the risk of rent arrears and disputes.

Updated Tenancy Agreements and Documentation
Our tenancy templates and management procedures are being revised to reflect rolling contracts, updated possession grounds and compliance with the new regulations.

Proactive Rent Reviews and Compliance Audits
We will manage rent reviews correctly under the new rules and ensure all properties meet the required standards ahead of the landlord register launch.

Ongoing Legal and Compliance Updates
Switch landlords will receive regular updates as the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) releases implementation dates and guidance.

The abolition of Section 21 marks a clear shift toward longer term tenant security but with robust management it remains fully manageable for professional landlords. The key will be strong tenant selection, meticulous record-keeping and proactive compliance. All areas where Switch Properties already leads.

These reforms highlight the importance of professional management. At Switch Properties we’re committed to ensuring every landlord remains compliant, protected and profitable throughout this transition.

Need Advice?

If you’re a landlord and would like to discuss how the Renters Reform Bill may affect your portfolio, our team is here to help.

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