Are You Ready for the Renters’ Rights Bill?

Are You Ready for the Renters’ Rights Bill?

There has been a lot of discussion about the Renters’ Rights Bill recently—and with good reason. It’s the most significant change for landlords since 1985.

Are you ready?
The first thing I’d recommend is attending the National Landlords Investment Show at Old Billingsgate on March 19th. There, you’ll find plenty of experts to quiz—and I’ll be there too!

One of the biggest talking points has been the loss of Section 21 notices. Personally, I don’t believe this will be as catastrophic as
some fear. Many landlords already rely on Section 8 notices instead. Are you one of them?

Yes, Section 21 is easier to use, but we have to adapt. The real issue will be controlling Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB). Section 8 simply doesn’t have enough teeth in this area. At iHowz, we will continue to lobby for stronger powers to tackle ASB, but in the meantime, be diligent. Carefully reference all prospective tenants, monitor your current ones, and consider rent guarantee insurance.

The Real Issue: Fixed-Term Tenancies Are Gone
A far greater concern is the loss of fixed-term tenancies, effectively creating what the Government calls a “Tenancy for Life.” I’ll let that sink in—a tenancy for life.

While you can still evict if you plan to sell or move in, otherwise, tenants can stay indefinitely unless they break the rules, typically by not paying rent.

Stay on Top of Rent Arrears & Increases
This brings me to another key point: stay on top of rent arrears. Don’t let them pile up. With the new rules, you’ll only be able to increase rent using a Section 13 notice, and the Government is actively encouraging tenants to challenge these at a Tribunal.

If a tenant disputes your rent increase, the new rate won’t take effect until the Tribunal rules on it—and it won’t be backdated. With Tribunal wait times already stretching up to six months, this delay will only get worse. Stay proactive with your rent increases.

New Restrictions on Rent in Advance
Another major change is the restriction on rent in advance. Landlords

can now only collect one month’s rent in advance, and only after the tenancy agreement has been signed.

We all know how difficult it can be to collect anything once the tenant has the keys—this is a serious issue, particularly for student landlords and those renting to tenants with no UK rental history.

Student Landlords: Pay Attention
If you rent to students, things are getting even more complicated. There are too many challenges to cover here, but if this affects you, come to the show and visit the iHowz stand.

The Key Message: Be Professional
I recently attended a conference where Lord Best spoke. His message was clear: the days of amateur landlords are over—especially if you ever
need to evict a tenant.

Get informed. Stay informed. Register for free attendance at the National Landlord Investment Show here on Wednesday 19 March at Old Billingsgate, London for an expert panel discussion on the Renters’ Rights Bill and to find out more about how an iHowz membership can benefit you.