A Landlord’s Guide to New Rental Legislation in 2025

Published: 01/02/2025 By Doug Gates

A Landlord’s Guide to New Rental Legislation in 2025

As the UK rental market evolves, 2025 promises significant changes in rental legislation that will impact how landlords manage their properties. New laws aim to create a fairer, more transparent market—enhancing tenant security while requiring landlords to adjust their practices. In this guide, we’ll break down the key reforms, what they mean for you, and how expert advice from seasoned professionals like House & Son can help you stay ahead.

1. Overview of the New Legislation

What’s Changing?
In 2025, the UK government is set to introduce a range of reforms that will affect all aspects of the rental market. Among the key changes are:

  • Enhanced Tenant Security: Measures to protect tenants from abrupt evictions.
  • Standardised Rent Adjustments: Clear guidelines on how and when rent can be increased.
  • Improved Transparency: New rules to ensure non-discriminatory practices throughout the tenant selection process.
  • Transition to Periodic Tenancies: Fixed-term tenancies will roll over into periodic arrangements, offering tenants longer-term stability.
These changes, partly driven by the anticipated Renters’ Rights Bill, reflect the government’s commitment to balancing the interests of both tenants and landlords.

2. Key Reforms Impacting Landlords

Abolition of Section 21 Evictions
  • What’s Changing:
    The ability to evict tenants without cause under Section 21 will be abolished. Instead, landlords must now provide a legally recognised reason—such as a breach of tenancy terms—before ending a tenancy.
  • Implications:
    • For Tenants: Greater security and predictability.
    • For Landlords: Increased responsibility to maintain thorough documentation and clear tenancy agreements that specify grounds for eviction.
Rent Increase Restrictions
  • What’s Changing:
    Landlords will be permitted to increase rent only once per year. Additionally, a minimum notice period of two months must be provided before any rent adjustment takes effect.
  • Implications:
    • For Tenants: More predictable budgeting and financial planning.
    • For Landlords: The need to carefully assess market conditions and justify any increases, ensuring that they are both fair and compliant with new regulations.
Transition from Fixed-Term to Periodic Tenancies
  • What’s Changing:
    Once the fixed-term contract expires, tenancies will automatically convert into periodic (rolling) tenancies.
  • Implications:
    • For Tenants: Enhanced long-term security and stability.
    • For Landlords: The need to revise contract templates and update property management processes to account for a rolling tenancy model.
Prohibition of Discriminatory Practices
  • What’s Changing:
    Landlords will be legally required to enforce strict non-discriminatory practices. Refusal of tenancy applications based on factors such as benefits status, family status, or other protected characteristics will be expressly prohibited.
  • Implications:
    • For Tenants: Ensures fair treatment during the application process.
    • For Landlords: Necessitates a review and update of tenant application procedures and staff training to ensure compliance with the new standards.
3. Practical Steps for Landlords

Navigating these changes will require proactive steps. Here’s how you can prepare:
  • Review and Update Tenancy Agreements:
    Ensure that your contracts clearly reflect the new legal requirements, including clauses related to evictions, rent increases, and tenancy durations.
  • Maintain Detailed Documentation:
    Keep comprehensive records of tenant communications, property inspections, and any breaches of tenancy agreements. These records will be vital if legal action becomes necessary.
  • Consult Legal and Property Management Experts:
    With legislation in flux, expert advice is crucial. A firm like House & Son, which has been serving the Bournemouth area since 1939 and is RICS-registered, offers up-to-date guidance and professional support tailored to the evolving market.
  • Train Your Team:
    Ensure that anyone involved in tenant management is familiar with the new rules and understands the importance of non-discriminatory practices.
  • Monitor Legislative Updates:
    Rental laws are likely to continue evolving. Stay informed through industry news, government publications, and professional advice to ensure ongoing compliance.
4. How House & Son Can Help

House & Son has over 85 years of experience in the property market and is a trusted, long-established estate agent and property management firm in Bournemouth. Their expertise spans:
  • Expert Valuations & Surveys:
    As a RICS-registered firm, they offer accurate property valuations, ensuring your property is fairly assessed under new market conditions.
  • Comprehensive Property Management:
    From managing day-to-day operations to handling block management for apartment complexes, House & Son’s services help landlords run a smooth, compliant rental business.
  • Legal and Regulatory Guidance:
    With the rapid changes in rental legislation, their team is well-equipped to provide up-to-date advice on tenancy agreements, eviction procedures, and non-discriminatory practices.
Leveraging the expertise of House & Son means you can navigate these changes with confidence and focus on maintaining a profitable, well-managed property portfolio.
5. Conclusion
The new rental legislation in 2025 represents a significant shift toward creating a fairer, more secure rental market. By understanding these changes and taking proactive measures, landlords can protect their investments while providing secure, reliable housing for tenants.
With expert support from industry veterans like House & Son, you can confidently adapt to these changes and continue to thrive in an evolving market.
Ready to ensure your property is compliant and well-managed in 2025?
Contact House & Son today for expert advice and tailored property management solutions.

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