The Renters Reform Bill Explained: A New Era for UK Tenants? By Humphrey & Co

What’s Changing? Key Features of the Bill

1. No More ‘No-Fault’ Evictions (Section 21)

Currently, landlords can evict tenants with just two months’ notice and no reason under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. This has left many renters afraid to complain about repairs or rent increases.

The bill abolishes Section 21, meaning tenants can no longer be evicted without a legitimate reason, such as rent arrears or breach of tenancy.

Why it matters: This is seen as the biggest win for renters in a generation.

2. All Tenancies Become Periodic

Say goodbye to 6- or 12-month fixed terms. The bill makes all tenancies open-ended, giving tenants more flexibility to leave and landlords a clearer process to regain possession.

Tenants can leave with two months’ notice at any time.

3. A Right to Request Pets

Tenants will now be able to request to keep pets, and landlords can only refuse with a “reasonable” excuse. Landlords can ask tenants to take out pet insurance to cover any damage.

A small change — but a big deal for pet lovers.

4. A New Ombudsman for Tenants

A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will give tenants a free, fast, and fair way to resolve disputes — without having to go to court.

This helps level the playing field for renters who feel powerless.

5. Decent Homes Standard Extended

For the first time, the government’s Decent Homes Standard will apply to the private rental sector — not just social housing.

This means private rentals must be safe, warm, and in good repair.

What Do People Think?

Supporters Say:

- It will rebalance power in the rental market.
- It ends “revenge evictions.”
- It encourages better housing standards.

Landlords Say:

- The changes could make it harder to deal with problematic tenants.
- There’s too much uncertainty around how the new system will work.
- Some smaller landlords may leave the market, reducing supply.

My Take: Progress, But Still a Work in Progress

The Renters Reform Bill is a major step forward — but it's not perfect.

It doesn’t address high rents or provide much help for people already struggling to pay. There are concerns about enforcement, delays in court systems, and the bill being watered down as it moves through Parliament.

Still, scrapping Section 21 and introducing clearer standards is long overdue. If implemented properly, this could mark the beginning of a fairer, more balanced rental market.

Final Thoughts

The Renters Reform Bill could reshape renting in England for the better — but only if it’s properly enforced and not diluted before becoming law.

Whether you’re a tenant, landlord, or just someone who cares about housing fairness, this is a conversation worth having.