Most Landlords Unprepared for Renters Rights Act: What You Need to Do Now

Why the Renters Rights Act Matters to Landlords

The Renters Rights Act represents the most significant overhaul of private rental law in England in recent years. Key provisions include:

• Abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ eviction notices
• Mandatory registration on a national landlord register
• Transition from fixed-term to periodic tenancies as default
• Stricter notice periods for tenancy termination
• Limits on rent increases
• Enhanced tenant rights, including the right to keep pets

Despite the government’s staged rollout to ease compliance, a recent Landlord Today survey found 57% of landlords feel unprepared, with many still awaiting guidance from letting agents.

Practical Implications for Different Landlord Profiles

Single-Unit Landlords: You will need to revise tenancy agreements to reflect periodic tenancies and updated notice periods. Prepare for longer notice requirements and restricted rent rises. The abolition of Section 21 means regaining possession will require proving tenant fault or other grounds.

HMO Landlords: Given the complexity of multiple occupants, ensure your tenant agreements comply with the new notice and rent increase rules. The right to keep pets may require property adjustments or clearer pet policies.

Portfolio Landlords: With multiple properties, auditing existing tenancy agreements and operational workflows is urgent. You may need to update processes for rent reviews and eviction notices across your portfolio. The national landlord register will require accurate data submission, so start gathering necessary information.

Accidental Landlords: If you rent out a property incidentally, the changes still apply. Engage your letting agent or legal adviser to understand your obligations, especially if you are less familiar with tenancy law.

Key Steps to Take Immediately

1. Request Detailed Guidance from Your Letting Agent: If your agent has not yet communicated the impact of the Renters Rights Act, contact them promptly. Agents should provide tailored advice and outline compliance plans.

2. Review and Update Tenancy Agreements: Work with a legal adviser to modify agreements for periodic tenancies, updated notice periods, rent increase clauses, and pet policies.

3. Prepare for the Abolition of Section 21 Notices: Understand alternative grounds for possession and ensure your record-keeping and tenant communications support these.

4. Register on the National Landlord Register: Start collecting property and personal data to complete registration as soon as the government opens the portal.

5. Monitor Government Updates and Timelines: The staged rollout means deadlines vary. Bookmark official government websites and subscribe to landlord compliance newsletters.

6. Engage Compliance or Legal Experts: For complex portfolios or uncertain situations, expert advice can prevent costly breaches.

Why Acting Now Saves You Time and Money

Delaying compliance risks breaches that can lead to fines or legal disputes. Early action helps you:

• Avoid tenancy agreement invalidation
• Maintain control over rent reviews
• Ensure possession procedures remain lawful
• Build positive tenant relations by respecting new rights

How Rentals & Sales Can Support You

Our team specialises in landlord compliance audits, tenancy agreement reviews, and pricing strategy adjustments tailored to the Renters Rights Act. Whether you manage a single property or a large portfolio, we offer practical solutions to help you transition smoothly and avoid penalties.

Contact us today for a portfolio review or compliance consultation.

Compliance Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult qualified legal professionals regarding their specific circumstances.