📢 Understanding the Renters (Reform) Bill: What It Means for Landlords and Tenants
As an independent lettings and property management agency based in Reading, we at Scope Property believe in keeping our landlords and tenants fully informed. One of the most significant pieces of housing legislation in recent years — the Renters (Reform) Bill — is currently making its way through Parliament, and it’s set to reshape the private rented sector in England.
Here’s a concise breakdown of what’s changing, what’s proposed, and what it could mean for you.
🔍 Key Highlights at a Glance
- Abolition of Section 21 ‘No Fault’ Evictions
- Move to Periodic Tenancies
- Stronger Grounds for Possession Under Section 8
- Landlords to Join a Mandatory Ombudsman Scheme
- New Property Portal for Landlords
- Right for Tenants to Request Pets
- New Standards for Housing Conditions
1. 🔚 Section 21 ‘No Fault’ Evictions to Be Scrapped
One of the most talked-about changes is the end of Section 21 evictions. Currently, landlords can end a tenancy without providing a reason, giving tenants just two months’ notice. This will be abolished, meaning tenancies can only be ended using specific, legal grounds under Section 8.
➡️ Implication for Landlords: While it removes flexibility, the Section 8 process will be strengthened to give landlords fair grounds to regain possession (e.g. for rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or selling the property).
2. 📆 All Tenancies to Become Periodic
Fixed-term tenancies will be replaced with open-ended, periodic tenancies. Tenants will need to give two months’ notice to leave, and landlords can serve notice under Section 8 grounds only.
➡️ Implication: Greater stability for tenants, but also a shift for landlords used to fixed terms. It will require a more hands-on approach to tenancy planning and property management.
3. 🧰 Strengthened Section 8 Grounds
New and revised grounds under Section 8 will include:
- Reclaiming the property for personal or family use
- Selling the property
- Persistent arrears, even if up to date at the time of the hearing
➡️ Our Take: The reforms aim to strike a balance — removing ‘no fault’ evictions, but giving landlords structured, reasonable avenues to regain control when needed.
4. ⚖️ Mandatory Ombudsman for Landlords
All private landlords will be required to join a government-approved ombudsman to resolve disputes without going to court.
➡️ Why This Matters: It should reduce friction and delay, while also raising standards across the sector. As managing agents, Scope Property already handles disputes transparently and professionally — this will further support that goal.
5. 🏡 National Property Portal
The government plans to introduce a new digital Property Portal, similar to the existing PRS Register in Wales, to help landlords understand their legal duties and demonstrate compliance.
➡️ Benefit for You: Centralised access to compliance documentation — another step towards greater professionalism in the sector.
6. 🐾 Tenants Can Request Pets
Tenants will have the right to request a pet, and landlords must not unreasonably refuse. Landlords can ask tenants to obtain pet insurance to cover potential damage.
➡️ Suggestion: Consider updating tenancy agreements and pet clauses — we can help you manage this transition smoothly.
7. 🔧 New Decent Homes Standard in the PRS
A new Decent Homes Standard will apply to the private rented sector, bringing it in line with social housing.
➡️ What to Expect: This will likely mean higher minimum standards around heating, insulation, and general upkeep. Properties managed by Scope Property are already maintained to high standards, and we’ll continue to advise landlords proactively.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Renters (Reform) Bill is designed to create a fairer, more secure private rental sector for both landlords and tenants. While it brings about significant changes, being informed and prepared is key.
At Scope Property, we’re here to:
- Help landlords adjust tenancy agreements and processes
- Ensure compliance through up-to-date documentation
- Offer professional property management that’s fully aligned with the new regulatory framework
💬 Want to Discuss How This Affects You?
Whether you’re a landlord looking to future-proof your portfolio or a tenant curious about your new rights, we’re happy to help.
📞 Call us today on 01189 777177 or email info@scopeproperty.co.uk for tailored advice.
