England’s 11 million private renters are now seeing one of the biggest shifts in housing law in nearly 40 years. The Renters’ Rights Bill, which officially received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, has become the Renters’ Rights Act, marking a new era for fairness and security in the private rental sector.
This landmark legislation, part of the government’s Plan for Change, aims to rebalance the relationship between renters and landlords, ending decades of uncertainty and instability for millions of tenants.
The End of ‘No Fault’ Evictions
At the heart of the new Act is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.
For years, this rule allowed landlords to evict tenants without reason, often forcing families out of their homes with little notice. With Section 21 gone, renters will now have the confidence to challenge poor housing conditions and unreasonable rent increases without fear of losing their home.
In turn, landlords will still retain the right to reclaim their property through fair and strengthened legal grounds, ensuring continued investment and stability across the sector.
A Fairer, More Transparent Rental Market
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces several key reforms designed to make renting safer, fairer, and more transparent:
-Simpler tenancy structure – All assured tenancies will now become periodic, making contracts clearer and more flexible.
-New Private Rented Sector Ombudsman – Tenants will have access to quick, impartial, and legally binding resolutions to disputes.
-Private Rented Sector Database – A new central database will help both landlords and tenants understand legal obligations and ensure compliance.
-Decent Homes Standard– For the first time, private rentals must meet the same basic quality standards as social housing.
-Awaab’s Law – Landlords must fix serious hazards, like damp and mould, within strict legal timeframes.
-Fairness for families and low-income renters– It’s now illegal to reject tenants because they have children or receive benefits.
-End of bidding wars – Landlords and agents can no longer accept offers above the listed rent price.
-Right to request pets – Tenants can now ask to keep a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse.
These changes represent a decisive move toward long-term housing stability, ensuring that renters are respected and protected, while responsible landlords are supported and recognised.
What’s Next?
The government will soon outline how and when the new reforms will roll out, providing clarity for both tenants and landlords.
As Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, put it:
“After years of debate and uncertainty, today marks an important milestone for the private rented sector. The sector now needs certainty about the way forward.”
What Does This Mean for Relocating Professionals and Employers?
For employers relocating staff to the UK, this change is significant. The Act promises greater security and transparency in rental agreements, helping employees and families feel more confident settling into their new homes.
At Cornerstone, we help businesses and individuals navigate every step of the relocation process, from finding suitable accommodation to understanding new housing legislation like this.
Whether you’re a tenant adjusting to new rights or a corporate client supporting employees relocating to the UK, our expert team is here to ensure a smooth and compliant experience. If you’d like to understand how the Renters’ Rights Act could impact your relocation or tenancy in the UK, our consultants are happy to help. Get in touch with Cornerstone to speak with our relocation experts today.