The Renters’ Rights Bill officially received Royal Assent yesterday, marking the most significant change to the private rented sector in over 30 years. The new Renters’ Rights Act introduces reforms designed to create greater security and fairness for both tenants and landlords – and while there are adjustments to make, there are also real positives for responsible landlords and professional agents.
At Lang Town & Country, we see this as a moment to strengthen trust, improve standards, and make the Plymouth rental market more stable and sustainable for everyone involved.
Want to get in touch with our team to discuss how we can help you? Find out more at our dedicated Renters’ Rights page or Contact us.
What’s Changing with the Renters’ Rights Act
The Act introduces several key reforms for landlords in England, including:
- The end of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, replaced by clearer, fairer grounds for possession under Section 8. Landlords will still be able to regain possession to sell a property or move in themselves – these grounds just can’t be used within the first 12 months of a tenancy.
- All tenancies become periodic, meaning they continue on a rolling monthly basis rather than fixed terms. This offers flexibility for tenants and predictable management cycles for landlords.
- Rent increases limited to once per year, with at least two months’ notice required and a clear process through a Section 13 notice.
- A new national landlord database and Landlord Ombudsman, designed to promote professionalism and transparency across the industry.
- New standards for private rented homes, aligning with the Decent Homes Standard to ensure properties are safe, well-maintained and free from serious hazards.
- Greater rights for tenants to keep pets, with landlords expected to consider requests reasonably and respond within 28 days.
What The Renters’ Rights Act Means for Plymouth Landlords
While change always brings uncertainty, the Renters’ Rights Act also brings clarity and consistency – which are good for serious landlords.Plymouth’s rental market is built on long-term tenancies and well-managed properties. Most local landlords already meet high standards and maintain positive relationships with tenants. For them, this legislation mainly formalises what they already do: provide safe, fair, and flexible homes.The introduction of the Private Rented Sector Database and Landlord Ombudsman should help build confidence in the sector, reducing rogue operators and creating a more level playing field. In a city where demand for quality rental homes remains strong, that’s a welcome step.
How We’re Helping Our Landlords Prepare for the Renters’ Rights Act
At Lang Town & Country, we’re already reviewing tenancy agreements, rent increase processes and compliance systems to make sure every landlord we work with is ready for the transition.Our property management team is also staying fully up to date with guidance from Propertymark and the UK Government, ensuring that our landlords remain compliant – and competitive – as the new rules take effect.
If you let a property through us, you’ll automatically benefit from our guidance on:
- Updating tenancy terms to reflect new periodic rules
- Managing rent reviews and Section 13 notices
- Handling possession claims correctly under Section 8
- Ensuring compliance with the Decent Homes Standard
- Registering with the new landlord database and Ombudsman service when they go live
The Renters’ Rights Act represents a new era for private renting in Plymouth and across England. While the headlines focus on the abolition of ‘no-fault’ evictions, the broader story is about raising standards, reducing disputes, and creating a more stable rental market.For landlords who take their responsibilities seriously and who work with experienced agents like Lang Town & Country, this is an opportunity to stand out for all the right reasons.
Need advice on how the new law affects you?Our lettings specialists are here to help you understand what the Renters’ Rights Act means for your portfolio and how to stay compliant.Call us on 01752 201010 or visit our dedicated Renters’ Rights page to speak to our lettings team.
