What the Renters’ Rights Act changes mean for you

The upcoming Renters’ Rights Act 2025 represents one of the most substantial reforms to the private rented sector in a generation. For many landlords, the conversation so far has been dominated by headlines and speculation - but what does the legislation actually mean in practice?

Sowerbys lettings team has created a complete guide to everything you need to know - here are the key areas landlords should be aware of, or get the full guide, here.

Why the Renters’ Rights Act Is Being Introduced

The government’s aim is to improve security and standards for tenants across England’s private rented sector.

The reforms are intended to:

Increase tenant security
Improve housing standards
Provide clearer routes for dispute resolution
Create greater consistency across the rental market

While these changes introduce new requirements for landlords, they also aim to bring greater transparency and professionalism to the sector.

Key Changes Landlords Should Be Aware Of

The End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions

One of the most widely discussed changes is the removal of Section 21 evictions.

This means landlords will no longer be able to regain possession of a property without providing a specific legal reason. Instead, possession will rely on strengthened Section 8 grounds, which include circumstances such as:

Selling the property
Moving back into the property
Serious rent arrears
Breach of tenancy agreement

While this change represents a shift in how tenancies are managed, clear legal grounds for possession will still exist.

Changes to Rent Increase Rules

The reforms are expected to alter how and when rent can be increased during a tenancy.

Rent reviews will likely become more structured, with clearer processes and timelines for landlords and tenants. The aim is to ensure increases are transparent and fair, while still allowing landlords to adjust rents in line with market conditions.

New Standards and Compliance Expectations

The legislation also introduces greater emphasis on property standards.

Landlords may need to demonstrate that properties meet defined quality benchmarks, including:

Safety standards
Property condition requirements
Faster response to maintenance issues

For professional landlords already maintaining high standards, these changes may largely formalise existing best practice.

A Shift Toward Periodic Tenancies

The proposed reforms will move the sector toward periodic tenancies rather than fixed-term agreements.

This means tenancies could operate on a rolling basis from the outset, providing tenants with greater flexibility while still allowing landlords to regain possession through the correct legal channels.

What This Means for Landlords

For many landlords, the biggest challenge is simply understanding how these changes will affect their property strategy.

Some may choose to review:

Portfolio structure
Lettings management arrangements
Compliance procedures
Long-term investment plans

The key is preparation. Understanding the legislation early allows landlords to adapt calmly and strategically rather than reactively.

The Opportunity for Professional Landlords

While legislative change can create uncertainty, it also tends to favour landlords who approach property investment professionally.

Well-managed properties, strong tenancy relationships, and clear compliance processes will remain the foundation of a successful rental portfolio.

For landlords who stay informed and adapt early, the evolving regulatory landscape can be navigated with confidence.

Download the Full Landlord Guide

To help landlords prepare for the upcoming changes, we have created a simple guide outlining the key areas of reform and what they may mean in practice.

Download the Sowerbys Landlord Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act to understand: