The UK Government’s Renters’ Rights Bill took a significant step toward becoming law today as it returned to Parliament for its Report and Third Reading. The proposed legislation promises to be the most transformative reform in the private rented sector in over three decades, bringing security and fairness to millions of renters across the country.

Published in a press release by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the legislation aims to address several long-standing challenges renters face, including sky-high upfront costs, “no-fault” evictions, and unsafe housing conditions.

Key Features of the Bill

1. Capping Advance Rent Payments
   • Landlords will no longer be permitted to demand more than one month’s rent upfront.
   • This change will prevent landlords from exploiting tenants by requiring excessive upfront payments, which can currently reach up to a year’s rent.
2. Abolishing Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions
   • This measure will stop landlords from evicting tenants without reason, providing greater housing stability for families and individuals.
3. Safeguarding Bereaved Families
   • Families of deceased tenants who acted as guarantors will be protected from financial liability for unpaid rent following their loved one’s death.
4. Student-Friendly Reforms
   • A new rule will discourage landlords from pressuring students into signing tenancy agreements too early in the academic year.
5. Strengthening Rent Repayment Orders (RROs)
   • Closing loopholes ensures landlords and agents committing offences are held accountable for repaying tenants.
6. Ombudsman for Renters and Landlords
   • Fees paid by landlords will fund a new private rented sector Ombudsman, providing accessible and fair dispute resolution.

Ministerial Statements

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner described the bill as part of the government’s “Plan for Change” to address the housing crisis:
“For too long, renters have been at the mercy of an unfair and unpredictable market. This bill will give families the security they need to put down roots and raise living standards for all.”

Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook emphasized the transformative nature of the reforms:
“This bill will modernize the regulation of our insecure and unjust private rented sector, leveling the playing field between landlords and tenants. It will ensure renters have access to good quality and safe homes as a matter of course.”

Expanding Tenant Protections

In addition to these reforms, the government will extend the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector, enabling tenants to demand better living conditions. This includes tackling issues like damp, mould, and other hazards.

Broader Housing Goals

The reforms are part of a larger government strategy to deliver 1.5 million new homes over the next five years, supported by a £5 billion housing investment, including an extra £500 million for the Affordable Homes Programme.

With the bill set for further debate, renters across the UK are one step closer to benefiting from these landmark changes, creating a fairer, safer, and more accessible housing market.