New rights for renters come into force

Millions of people living in rented accommodation can now benefit from new rights and protections.

The government’s flagship renters’ right act has come into force today (1 May), which means:

• no more Section 21 - or no-fault – evictions
• landlords can’t refuse tenants because they receive benefits or have children
• an end to fixed-term tenancies
• landlords can only raise rent once a year and tenants can challenge increases if they think they’re unfair
• an end to bidding wars
• landlords can’t ask for more than one month’s rent upfront
• renters can ask to live with a pet and requests must be reasonably considered by landlords

The government believes the new rules and protections will “transform” the experiences of 11m tenants.

Changes will fix a broken system, says PM

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer has hailed the new rights and protections as “historic”, saying they’ll make renting “fairer, safer and more secure” for millions of people.

“For too long, families have lived with the constant fear of eviction, while young people have been outbid for the homes they need to start their lives,” he commented.

“We are putting that right. 

“We promised to fix a broken rental system and we’re delivering.”

Housing secretary Steve Reed added that the changes mark the start of a “new era” for private renters and gives them “the security they deserve”.

“Renters have been living at the mercy of rogue landlords and in fear of losing their home for too long,” he said.

How will the new law be enforced?

Of course, new laws only make a real difference to people’s lives if they’re properly enforced.

So councils are being given new powers and funding to investigate and clamp down on rogue landlords, and they can issue fines of up to £40,000 for serious breaches.

Money is also being invested in digitalising court processes, so both tenants and landlords can access justice more easily.

I live in rented housing - how do I exercise my new rights?

If you have a grievance with your landlord, you should raise any concerns with them first before taking formal action.

If you do need to escalate a grievance, you can get details on the best way to deal with the issue at GOV.UK.

And if you think your landlord might be breaking the law, get in touch with your local council.