Tenant Rights
Tenant Rights Under the Renters Rights Act
The Renters Rights Act represents one of the most significant overhauls of the private rented sector in England in recent decades. While much of the public conversation has focused on landlord obligations, the legislation also reshapes tenant rights in practical and measurable ways. The intention is not to favour one side over the other, but to create a clearer, more transparent system that balances security for tenants with lawful protections for landlords.
Understanding tenant rights renters reform changes is essential for anyone currently renting or planning to rent in the near future. From security of tenure and rent increase protections to strengthened property standards and redress systems, the reforms aim to modernise how tenancies operate.
This guide explains the key changes in a balanced and professional manner. It is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice.
SECURITY OF TENURE CHANGES
A central pillar of the Renters Rights Act is the reform of tenancy structure and possession rules. Proposals include removing or significantly restricting Section 21 ‘no-fault’ eviction procedures and making periodic tenancies the default arrangement.
Under this model, tenants would no longer face automatic termination simply because a fixed term has ended. Instead, tenancies would continue on a rolling basis until the tenant chooses to leave or the landlord regains possession using a legitimate statutory ground.
Statutory grounds may include selling the property, landlord occupation, persistent rent arrears or serious breaches of the tenancy agreement. The process is intended to be evidence-based and clearly defined, reducing uncertainty for both parties.
Security of tenure does not mean tenants can remain regardless of circumstances. Rather, it means that possession must follow a structured and transparent process.
RENT INCREASE PROTECTIONS
Tenant rights renters reform also strengthens the framework around rent increases. Landlords are expected to follow statutory procedures when increasing rent, including formal notice requirements and defined timing rules.
This reduces the likelihood of sudden or informal rent adjustments. Tenants should receive clear written notice and have time to consider the proposed increase.
Where appropriate, tenants may have the ability to challenge excessive increases through established channels. The objective is not to freeze rents, but to ensure adjustments reflect market conditions and follow due process.
For a broader overview of how rent reform fits within the wider legislation, see Renters Rights Act guide.
PROPERTY STANDARDS AND DECENT HOMES STANDARD
The Act reinforces expectations that rental properties must be safe, warm and free from serious hazards. Alignment with the Decent Homes Standard means landlords must address structural disrepair, heating deficiencies, electrical safety and damp or mould risks.
Tenants have the right to live in accommodation that meets basic safety benchmarks. Where issues arise, landlords are expected to respond within reasonable timeframes.
Under Awaab’s Law, landlords must investigate reported health hazards such as damp and mould within 14 days and begin necessary repairs within 7 days once the issue has been confirmed.
Clear documentation of reported repairs, inspections and remedial works benefits both parties. Professional landlord compliance support can help ensure standards are consistently maintained: https://www.housing-ombudsman.org.uk/landlords-info/
Increased enforcement powers mean local authorities may take stronger action where serious hazards are ignored.
COMPLAINT AND OMBUDSMAN SYSTEM
Another key development under tenant rights renters reform is the strengthening of redress mechanisms. A mandatory landlord ombudsman scheme is proposed to provide independent dispute resolution.
This system allows tenants to escalate complaints relating to repairs, communication failures or procedural disputes without immediately resorting to court proceedings.
An effective ombudsman framework supports fairness and accountability while encouraging early resolution.
ENDING A TENANCY
Tenants retain the right to end a tenancy by providing appropriate notice. Under the updated framework, tenants have the right to provide at least two months’ notice, which overrides older tenancy agreement clauses that previously required shorter notice periods.
This offers flexibility for those relocating for work, study or personal reasons.
Landlords must rely on statutory grounds to regain possession. The removal of automatic fixed-term expiry means tenancy termination follows clearer evidential criteria.
Tenants remain responsible for complying with their contractual obligations during the notice period, including rent payments and property care.
ADDITIONAL TENANT PROTECTIONS
Tenant rights renters reform also introduces several additional protections designed to improve fairness within the private rented sector.
Rental bidding wars are now prohibited. Landlords and letting agents cannot accept offers above the advertised rent for a property. This measure is intended to prevent competitive bidding and improve transparency in high-demand markets.
Tenants also gain a new right to request a pet. Landlords must consider pet requests reasonably and respond within 28 days. Requests cannot be unreasonably refused.
The legislation also strengthens anti-discrimination protections. Blanket policies such as “No DSS” or “No Children” are no longer lawful and cannot be used when advertising or offering rental properties.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR TENANTS IN SOUTH WEST LONDON
South West London continues to be one of the capital’s most competitive rental markets. Areas such as letting agents Richmond, letting agents Putney, letting agents Battersea and letting agents Chiswick attract strong demand due to transport links, schools and green spaces.
Stronger security of tenure may encourage longer-term residence in desirable neighbourhoods. Tenants may feel more confident committing to properties without concern over automatic fixed-term termination.
However, market-driven rent levels remain influenced by supply and demand. Understanding statutory protections helps tenants navigate negotiations more confidently.
HOW PARKGATE SUPPORTS FAIR AND TRANSPARENT LETTINGS
Parkgate supports fair and transparent lettings through structured management processes, clear communication and updated tenancy agreements aligned with renters reform.
We regularly update our Renters Rights Act guide to reflect legislative developments and ensure clarity for both landlords and tenants.
By maintaining professional standards and prioritising open dialogue, we aim to create stable tenancy relationships that work for both parties.
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Want to know more? Speak to one of our team on 020 8940 2991
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