Overview of The Renters' Rights Act (RRA) changes 

The biggest shake-up to the Private Rental Sector (PRS) is just around the corner. We’ve put together a quick overview of the major changes coming in so you don’t need to go routing through the 100s of pages. 

What are the key changes to the Private Rental Sector? 

Abolishment of Section 21 evictions: Landlords and agents can no longer evict tenants without providing a reason. All new notices must be served by serving a Section 8 notice and using the amended grounds. 

PRS database: All Landlords and their properties must be registered on the new PRS Database.

Right to request a pet: Landlords may not unreasonably refuse pets when requested by applicants and tenants. 

PRS Ombudsman: Landlords will be required to sign up for the PRS Ombudsman. Tenants will be able to complain directly about their Landlord, free of charge. 

Application of Awaab’s Law into PRS: Awaab’s Law aims to improve housing safety by requiring Landlords and Agents to investigate issues within strict timeframes. 

Ending the practice of rental bidding: Landlords and Agents can no longer accept rental bidding, rent upfront or increased offers from tenants. 

Fixed tenancies abolished: Once the RRA is implemented, all fixed tenancies will automatically transition on to Assured Tenancies. 

Changes to rent increases: As fixed tenancies will be a thing of the past, the only way to increase a tenants rent will now be via the Section 13 method. These can only be implemented once a year, and tenants have the rights to counter the increase with the tribunal. 

Tenants notice period: Tenants are now required to give two months notice rather than one. 

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

The RRA gives new and improved powers to local authorities and increases their enforcement measures including penalties of up to £7,000 for first offences. 

When will the Renters Rights Act take effect?

Now that the Bill has passed Royal Assent and become an Act, it’s tough to say when everything will be firmly in place. The government are keeping their cards close to their chest. Many in the industry are already asking for a minimum six months notice to allow Landlords to adapt. The only insight we have so far is from Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook who has said both landlords and tenants will be provided with ‘sufficient notice’.

What are our thoughts and what are we doing to prepare?

As an agency who values responsible Landlords and good Tenants, and the RRA aiming to push those who are not so responsible to be so, we're confident that our clients won’t notice too much of a difference. 

At Ultralets, we’ve already been working hard behind the scenes to ensure our clients don’t feel the pinch. In place already are compliant ASTs, S13s and processes and systems that are  ready to be changed once the RRA commencement date is set. 

We’re sure you’ll have plenty of questions on the Renters Rights Bill and how it may affect you, your tenants and Ultralets. Feel free to speak to our Lettings Manager, Jake Astill who is contactable on 01482 562 562 or via email at jake.astill@ultralets.co.uk.