Renters' Rights Act 2025: What Portfolio Landlords Need to Know
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 represents the most significant change to the private rented sector in a generation. For portfolio landlords managing multiple properties, understanding and preparing for these changes is essential. This article breaks down what you need to know and how to prepare.
Abolition of Section 21 'No Fault' Evictions
The headline change is the end of Section 21 notices. Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without providing a valid reason. All tenancies will become periodic from the start, meaning tenants can stay as long as they wish, provided they meet their obligations.
Strengthened Section 8 Grounds
To balance the removal of Section 21, the government has strengthened and expanded the grounds under Section 8. New mandatory grounds include selling the property, moving a family member in, and significant rent arrears. The notice periods and court processes have been streamlined.
The Private Rented Sector Database
Free download: Renters' Rights Act 2025 Landlord Checklist
Every compliance requirement from 1 May 2026 in one printable PDF. Covers possession rules, rent increases, safety certificates, pet requests, discrimination compliance, and PRS Database readiness.
Your email is sent to our email provider Kit to deliver the checklist and follow-up emails. No spam — unsubscribe anytime. See our privacy policy.
A new national database will require all landlords to register their properties. This database will be publicly searchable, allowing tenants to check whether a property and landlord are compliant. For portfolio landlords, this means registering every single property and keeping records up to date.
| Change | Impact on Landlords | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Section 21 abolition | Must use Section 8 with valid grounds only | Royal Assent + 12 months |
| PRS Database registration | Register all properties with compliance data | TBC by regulations |
| Pet permission default | Cannot unreasonably refuse pets | Royal Assent + 12 months |
| Rent increase limits | Once per year, market rate, via Section 13 | Royal Assent + 12 months |
| Decent Homes Standard | All PRS properties must meet standard | TBC by regulations |
Portfolio landlords with 10+ properties will be among the first required to register on the PRS Database. Start preparing your compliance documentation now.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Renters' Rights Act 2025 come into force?
The Act received Royal Assent in 2025. Most provisions will come into force 12 months after Royal Assent, with some provisions phased in over a longer period.
Can I still evict a tenant who doesn't pay rent?
Yes. Rent arrears remain a valid ground for possession under Section 8. The Act has actually strengthened the mandatory ground for persistent rent arrears.
Free download: Renters' Rights Act 2025 Landlord Checklist
Every compliance requirement from 1 May 2026 in one printable PDF. Covers possession rules, rent increases, safety certificates, pet requests, discrimination compliance, and PRS Database readiness.
Your email is sent to our email provider Kit to deliver the checklist and follow-up emails. No spam — unsubscribe anytime. See our privacy policy.