The Renters’ Rights Bill has officially become law after receiving Royal Assent, marking a historic milestone for England’s 11 million private renters. The legislation represents the most significant expansion of renters’ rights in a generation, abolishing Section 21 “no fault” evictions—a practice that has long left tenants vulnerable to sudden displacement and homelessness.
The Renters’ Rights Act fulfills the government’s Plan for Change commitment to create a fairer balance between landlords and tenants. By ending Section 21 evictions, renters will now be able to challenge poor housing conditions and unfair rent increases without fear of losing their homes. Tenants will also have the right to end tenancies with two months’ notice, while landlords retain access to fair repossession processes that protect legitimate interests and investment in the sector.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the law as a “foundation for opportunity, safety, and a better life,” while Secretary of State Steve Reed called it “the biggest leap forward in renters’ rights in a generation.” The new measures aim to end decades of insecurity for renters, ensuring that tenants are protected, respected, and empowered.
The Act also introduces a range of additional protections to make renting safer and fairer. Landlords will be prohibited from discriminating against tenants with children or those receiving benefits. Tenants will gain stronger rights to request pets, and new safeguards will prevent excessive rent increases or bidding wars. The law extends the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector, ensuring homes are safe and well-maintained.
A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will provide tenants with a fast, impartial, and binding resolution process for complaints. This independent body will have the authority to order apologies, compensation, and corrective action from landlords, strengthening accountability and tenant confidence.
The legislation has been widely welcomed by housing advocates and renter organizations, including Shelter, Generation Rent, and Citizens Advice, who hailed the law as a “generational upgrade” to renters’ rights. They emphasized that it will finally end the fear of unfair eviction and allow tenants to demand essential repairs without risk.
Landlord associations, including the National Residential Landlords Association, have acknowledged the significance of the reforms while calling for clarity on implementation to ensure that the new systems are fair and workable for all parties. Homelessness charity St Mungo’s also welcomed the Act as a crucial step toward reducing homelessness and improving access to safe, affordable housing.
By delivering stronger tenant protections, greater housing security, and a fairer rental system, the Renters’ Rights Act marks a decisive turning point in the future of private renting in England.
