The Renters’ Rights Bill 2025: A Landlord’s Compliance Checklist for HMOs

The Renters’ Rights Bill (RRB) is one of the most significant reforms to the private rented sector in decades. It is expected to become law by Autumn 2025 and will bring sweeping changes that every landlord must be ready for.

At Houseshare Heroes, we specialise in HMO management and work closely with landlords to ensure their properties remain compliant and profitable. With these new rules on the horizon, we’ve put together a clear checklist to help landlords prepare, stay compliant, and protect their investments.

1. The End of Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions

What’s changing:

• Section 21 evictions will be abolished.

• All tenancies will move to rolling, periodic contracts.

• Possession will only be granted under defined legal grounds such as selling the property, moving in yourself (or family), rent arrears, or anti-social behaviour.

How to prepare:

• Understand the new possession grounds and when they apply.

• Keep accurate records of any plans to sell, refurbish, or reclaim the property.

• Strengthen tenant communication to reduce disputes.

2. Private Rented Sector Database

What’s changing:

• All landlords must register their properties on a new national database.

• This will improve transparency and enforcement across the rental market.

How to prepare:

• Gather your Gas Safety Certificate, EPC, and EICR.

• Ensure all documents are current and stored centrally.

• Put systems in place to track renewals and deadlines.

3. Meeting the Decent Homes Standard

What’s changing:

• Private landlords will now need to meet the Decent Homes Standard.

• Properties must be safe, free from hazards like damp or faulty wiring, and fit for human habitation.

• Awaab’s Law will also apply, meaning damp and mould must be dealt with within strict timeframes.

How to prepare:

• Carry out property inspections and budget for necessary repairs.

• Create clear processes for responding to tenant repair requests quickly.

• Ensure tenants know how to report issues, and put cover in place for when you’re unavailable.

4. Rent Increases

What’s changing:

• Rent can only be increased once per year.

• Landlords must give at least two months’ notice.

• Tenants can challenge unfair rent hikes at a tribunal.

• Only one month’s rent in advance can be requested at the start of a tenancy.

How to prepare:

• Plan a rent review calendar.

• Base increases on market evidence to avoid disputes.

• Keep records of rent adjustments and justifications.

5. Tenant Dispute Resolution: The Ombudsman Scheme

What’s changing:

• A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will resolve disputes.

• Their decisions will be legally binding.

• All landlords must register with the scheme.

How to prepare:

• Sign up as soon as the scheme is live.

• Keep detailed maintenance and communication records.

• Focus on proactive, clear communication with tenants.

6. New Rules on Pets

What’s changing:

• Tenants will gain the right to request a pet.

• Landlords cannot refuse unreasonably.

How to prepare:

• Create a fair, transparent pet policy that balances tenant needs with property upkeep.

7. Stronger Protections Against Tenant Discrimination

What’s changing:

• It will be illegal to discriminate against tenants on benefits or with children.

• Tenant selection must be based on financial suitability only.

How to prepare:

• Review your tenant screening process.

• Focus on affordability, references, and credit checks.

• Ensure your agents also follow the new rules.

8. Local Authority Enforcement

What’s changing:

• Councils will have greater enforcement powers.

• Higher fines and penalties will apply for breaches.

How to prepare:

• Keep informed of local authority regulations.

• Carry out regular property inspections.

• Build positive relationships with your local council.

Next Steps for Landlords

• Stay updated as the Bill moves through Parliament – details may still change.

• Review your property portfolio now to identify compliance gaps.

• Update tenancy agreements to reflect new requirements.

• Strengthen your record-keeping systems.

• Join landlord associations or accreditation schemes to stay ahead.

Final Thoughts

The Renters’ Rights Bill is designed to rebalance the private rental market and strengthen tenant protections. While adapting may feel daunting, landlords who prepare early will protect their business, avoid costly penalties, and maintain positive tenant relationships.

At Houseshare Heroes, we support landlords across the East Midlands with full HMO management – from compliance to tenant care. If you’d like guidance on how these changes affect your portfolio, get in touch with our team today.

📧 www,houseshareheroes.co.uk

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