‹ Blog / Landlord Compliance
The Renters’ Rights Bill: What Every Landlord, Tenant & Buyer Should Know
The Renters’ Rights Bill is the government’s latest move to change how renting works in the UK. Here’s what it could mean for tenants and landlords - and what happens next.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is well on its way to becoming law – a sweeping piece of legislation that will change the landscape of the private rented sector (PRS) for good.
At Tracy Thorne Estates, we’re already preparing. We’re here to guide landlords, tenants, and buyers through the changes with clear, practical advice – and that friendly professionalism we’re known for across Chislehurst, Sidcup, Bromley, and beyond.
Here’s what you need to know:
What’s Changing?
No More Fixed-Term Tenancies
Every new tenancy will be periodic by default. This means tenants can leave with two months’ notice at any time. For landlords, this means greater flexibility for tenants – and the need to adapt to a more fluid market.
Goodbye Section 21
‘No fault’ evictions will be abolished. Landlords will need to rely on Section 8 grounds for possession – including:
- Selling the property (but only after 12 months, with 4 months’ notice)
- Moving in yourself or close family
- Breach of tenancy
- Persistent rent arrears (now defined as 3 months’ arrears)
Landlord & Property Registers
Before a property can be marketed for rent, the landlord must be registered on a new PRS Database. There will also be a Redress Scheme Register – meaning landlords will need to be signed up to a redress scheme before purchasing a buy-to-let.
Restrictions on Rent in Advance
Landlords will only be allowed to collect 1 month’s rent in advance, and only once a tenancy agreement is signed and in force.
🔺 Penalties of up to £30,000 apply for non-compliance – so this is not optional.
Professional Guarantor Services & Tenant Support
With restrictions on upfront rent, more landlords may now require professional guarantors to safeguard tenancies – particularly for students or those with non-traditional income sources. Tracy Thorne Estates is already exploring reputable guarantor solutions to support both landlords and tenants under the new rules.
Pets, Rent Caps & Repairs
The Bill covers everything from pets to damp – including:
- Limitations on rent in advance (only one month allowed)
- Tougher enforcement on disrepair and housing conditions
Tenants to be given greater rights to request a pet, with landlords required to have a reasonable reason to say no!
For Landlords Thinking of Selling
New rules will have real consequences if you plan to sell a tenanted property:
- You can’t serve notice to sell until the tenant has been in place for 12 months
- Then you must give 4 months’ notice
- If the sale falls through, the property can’t be re-let for 12 months
So – if you’re planning a sale, speak to us now to plan ahead and avoid void periods.
For Tenants
The Bill gives tenants the ability to:
- Leave a tenancy at any time with two months’ notice
- Raise maintenance issues without fear of eviction
- Expect greater transparency around fees, deposits, and redress
How We're Preparing at Tracy Thorne Estates
✅ Training – Our lettings team are attending briefings and workshops so we stay up-to-date and ahead of the curve.
✅ Paperwork – New tenancy agreements, compliance steps, and onboarding processes are already being revised.
✅ Landlord Advice – We’re helping landlords review current portfolios, timelines, and investment strategies.
✅ Communication – As always, we’ll talk you through every step with friendly, personal advice.
Our View
Change is coming – and it’s big. But with the right planning and support, landlords can thrive in the new system. The Bill is all about balance – supporting good landlords while cracking down on poor standards. We’re here to make sure your property remains compliant, profitable, and looked after.
If you’re a landlord or investor in Chislehurst, Sidcup, Bromley, or Bexley Borough, and want to understand how the Renters’ Rights Bill affects you, let’s talk.