Renters’ Reform Bill 2025: What Landlords Must Know
Introduction
The Renters Reform Bill 2025 is set to transform the private rental sector in England. For landlords, the biggest question is simple: “How will this change the way I let my properties?”
From the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions to new tenancy structures and stricter compliance obligations, the Bill is designed to give tenants more security — but it also introduces new challenges for landlords.
If you’re a landlord in Oxfordshire or the wider UK, here’s everything you need to know about the Renters Reform Bill 2025, and how you can prepare to stay compliant while protecting your investment.
What Is the Renters Reform Bill 2025?
The Renters Reform Bill 2025 aims to rebalance the rental market by providing tenants with more stability and transparency. The Government’s stated goal is to “create a fairer private rental sector.”
For landlords, this means several long-standing practices will change, including tenancy agreements, eviction processes, and property standards.
The End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions
One of the headline reforms is the abolition of Section 21 evictions.
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What this means: Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants at short notice without providing a reason.
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Replacement: Evictions must now go through Section 8 grounds, which require specific justifications, such as rent arrears, breach of tenancy, or the landlord intending to sell or move into the property.
💡 Impact for Oxfordshire landlords: While this change gives tenants greater security, it also means landlords need tighter record-keeping and stronger tenancy agreements to protect themselves in disputes.
New Tenancy Rules: Moving to Open-Ended Tenancies
The Bill proposes the removal of fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs), replacing them with open-ended tenancies.
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What this means: Tenancies will effectively run until the tenant chooses to leave or the landlord can prove a legitimate ground for possession.
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Tenant notice: Tenants will need to provide at least two months’ notice to leave.
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Landlord notice: Landlords can still end tenancies, but only under legally defined grounds.
👉 For landlords used to 6- or 12-month tenancies, this represents a big cultural shift. Planning for long-term occupancy will be key.
Landlord Obligations Under the Bill
The Renters’ Reform Bill 2025 landlords changes also expand compliance responsibilities. Some of the new obligations include:
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Decent Homes Standard: Rental properties must meet a new quality benchmark — covering issues like damp, insulation, and safety.
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Stricter Rent Increases: Landlords must give tenants at least two months’ notice of rent increases, which must be “fair and transparent.”
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Pet-Friendly Tenancies: Tenants will have the legal right to request a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse. Landlords may require pet insurance to cover damages.
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Stronger Redress Schemes: All landlords will need to join a government-approved redress scheme, giving tenants clearer routes to raise complaints.
What This Means for Oxfordshire Landlords
In areas like Didcot, Abingdon, and Bicester — where rental demand is high — landlords may not struggle to find tenants, but the Bill still reshapes how they operate:
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Longer-term planning: With open-ended tenancies, landlords should budget for fewer tenant turnovers but potentially longer voids if disputes arise.
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More detailed paperwork: Keeping clear evidence of rent arrears or tenancy breaches will be essential to secure possession under Section 8 grounds.
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Property upgrades: Meeting the Decent Homes Standard may require investment in insulation, damp-proofing, or general repairs — especially in older Oxfordshire homes.
How Landlords Can Prepare Now
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Review your tenancy agreements: Update contracts to reflect open-ended tenancy structures.
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Strengthen record-keeping: Keep detailed logs of rent payments, communications, and property inspections.
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Budget for compliance costs: Factor in possible property upgrades and redress scheme membership.
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Communicate with tenants: Building strong relationships can prevent disputes escalating into formal eviction processes.
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Seek local expertise: Agents like Legacy PSL can help landlords adapt to these changes smoothly.
FAQs: Renters Reform Bill 2025 Landlords
Q: When will the Renters Reform Bill 2025 come into effect?
Implementation is expected to begin in stages throughout 2025, with full rollout by 2026.
Q: Can I still evict tenants if I want to sell my property?
Yes, but you must follow Section 8 grounds, proving your intention to sell.
Q: How will rent increases work under the new rules?
Landlords must give two months’ notice and ensure increases are “reasonable.” Tenants can challenge unfair rises.
Q: What happens if my property doesn’t meet the Decent Homes Standard?
You may face enforcement action, fines, or restrictions on letting until improvements are made.
The Property Coach’s Take
The Renters Reform Bill 2025 is a landmark change. While it adds pressure to landlords, it also professionalises the sector — rewarding those who maintain good properties and strong tenant relationships.
Think of it this way: landlords who plan ahead, keep properties in great shape, and work with expert agents will not only survive these changes but thrive in a more transparent rental market.
Final Thoughts & CTA
The Renters Reform Bill 2025 landlords changes mark a turning point. By preparing now, you can stay compliant, protect your income, and continue growing your portfolio with confidence.
👉 Book your free landlord consultation with Legacy PSL today — we’ll guide you through the new rules and help you prepare.
👉 Already letting with us? We’ll ensure your tenancies and compliance are future-proofed. And don’t forget to join our free Facebook group, The Property Coach — your go-to space for landlord updates, advice, and support.
Check out our previous blog about the EPC Update for landlords
