The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is now officially law, bringing the biggest changes to the UK rental sector in over three decades. Whether you own a single rental property or manage a full portfolio, understanding these reforms is essential for staying compliant, avoiding penalties, and protecting your rental income.
At Carrington Thorn Property Management, we specialise in helping landlords across Birmingham, Wolverhampton, London and the wider UK navigate these complex new requirements with confidence.
This guide breaks down exactly what the new law means for landlords — and how to stay protected under the updated regulations.
What Is the Renters’ Rights Act 2025?
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is the government’s successor to the originally proposed Renters’ Reform Bill.
It aims to:
- Increase tenant security
- eliminate unfair evictions
- raise property standards
- Improve the accountability of landlords
- strengthen council enforcement powers
For landlords, this means stricter legal obligations, more transparency, and heavier penalties for non-compliance.
Key Changes Landlords Must Understand
1. Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions Are Abolished
Landlords can no longer remove tenants without giving a valid reason.
All evictions must now fall under strengthened Section 8 grounds, including:
- breach of tenancy
- antisocial behaviour
- repeated rent arrears
- landlord selling or moving in
2. Open-Ended Tenancies Become Standard
Fixed-term ASTs are being phased out.
Tenancies will continue indefinitely unless:
- tenants give notice,
- landlords use a valid eviction ground, or
- both parties agree to end the tenancy.
3. Rent Increases Are More Regulated
Rent increases must now:
- follow a formal notice process
- be fair and evidence-based
- be challengeable by tenants
Landlords who raise rent incorrectly risk tribunal action, financial loss, or invalid notices.
4. Mandatory Landlord Redress & Registration
Every landlord must:
- join an approved ombudsman/redress scheme
- register their properties on a government landlord database
Failure to register may lead to:
- fines
- enforcement notices
- difficulties regaining possession
5. Increased Compliance & Enforcement
Councils now have expanded powers to:
- issue civil penalties
- demand documentation
- inspect and enforce property standards
- track non-compliant landlords
Tenants also gain stronger rights to challenge unlawful practices.
What the New Law Means for Landlords
For UK landlords, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 introduces:
- greater administrative workload
- more legal risks
- stricter eviction processes
- the need for precise record-keeping
- the end of informal or “hands-off” management
DIY landlords who aren’t trained in compliance may find it increasingly difficult to remain legally protected.