The Renters’ Rights Bill received Royal Assent on 28 October 2025, marking the most significant reform of England’s private rented sector in a generation. [1] While the timetable for implementation is still to be confirmed, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (the “Act”) introduces major changes affecting landlords, tenants, and the wider rental market.

According to Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the NRLA, the reforms represent the “most significant shake-up of the rental market in almost 40 years,” highlighting the importance of clear and fair implementation. [2] Secretary of State Steve Reed described the legislation as a “historic” Act that “marks the biggest leap forward in renters’ rights in a generation.”

This Act represents a paradigm shift in the rental sector, giving tenants greater security and recourse while still protecting legitimate landlord interests. With the new legislation in place, Consulco Group is adapting its practices to ensure fairness, transparency, and enhanced tenant protection.

Key Reforms at a Glance:

  • Abolition of Assured Shorthold Tenancies (“ASTs”) and Fixed-Term Tenancies: Only periodic assured tenancies with rental periods up to one month will be allowed. Existing ASTs and fixed-term assured tenancies that do not benefit from exemptions will automatically convert to period assured tenancies once the relevant provisions come to force.
  • Abolition of Section 21 No-Fault Evictions: Tenants can no longer be evicted without cause but transitional provisions allow some existing cases to continue.
  • Overhaul of Section 8 Grounds: New grounds for possession, including sale of a dwelling, will be introduced, and several existing grounds will be amended.
  • Tenant Flexibility: Tenants can end a tenancy by giving two months’ notice.
  • Rent and Bidding Rules: Advance payments are restricted, bidding practices are banned, and statutory procedures govern rent increases. Tenants can challenge increases.
  • Anti-Discrimination Protections: Landlords cannot refuse tenants for having children or receiving benefits, though income may still be considered for affordability.
  • Landlord Redress and Oversight: Landlords must join recognised complaint schemes and register in the new Private Rented Sector Database.
  • Safety and Quality Standards: The Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law now extend to private rentals, ensuring safer, higher-quality homes.

Looking Ahead

While Royal Assent has been granted, full implementation dates and detailed regulations are still pending, and secondary legislation will clarify the finer points of the reforms. Government ministers have indicated that further guidance and rollout plans will follow in the coming weeks.

Consulco Group remains committed to monitoring these developments closely and adapting its practices to ensure compliance, safeguard tenant rights, and uphold the highest standards in the private rental sector.

For landlords, investors, and property managers seeking clarity on how the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 may affect their portfolios or tenancy management practices, Consulco Group’s experienced Real Estate and Legal teams are available to provide tailored guidance.

For further information or to discuss how these reforms may impact you, please contact legal@consulco.com.

Author: Antonia Manti, Legal Counsel of Consulco Group, based at our London office.

[1] https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3764
[2] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/historic-renters-rights-act-becomes-law