Ministers herald arrival of Renters’ Rights Act as legislation comes into force across England

These changes come as the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force after receiving royal assent on October 27, 2025.

Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions have been outlawed, ending the practice of evicting tenants without being forced to give a reason. The government has fulfilled a manifesto promise, aimed at giving renters greater security and help prevent homelessness which puts strain on local authorities and the social housing sector. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

“For too long, families have lived with the constant fear of eviction, while young people have been outbid for the homes they need to start their lives.

“Today we are putting that right. We promised to fix a broken rental system and we’re delivering.

“This historic action will make renting fairer, safer and more secure for millions, so people can settle, put down roots and build their lives.”

Other changes coming into force today include:

• End of fixed contracts – all tenancies in the private rented sector will roll on from month to month or week to week (depending on your arrangement) with no end date, giving renters more flexibility. Tenants can end them with two months’ notice.
• Rent rules – landlords can only raise rent once a year and renters can challenge unfair hikes.
• Ban on bidding wars – landlords must stick to no more than the advertised rent price, and can only ask for one month of rent in advance
• Anti-discrimination – it’s now illegal to refuse tenants just because they receive benefits or have kids.
• Pet rights strengthened – renters can now ask to live with a pet and landlords must reasonably consider it.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed said:

“Renters have been living at the mercy of rogue landlords and in fear of losing their home for too long.

“We are putting a stop to this with historic changes that give renters the security they deserve - marking the beginning of a new era for private renters.”

Alongside the new laws is heftier penalties of up to £40k if they are broken and rogue landlords can no longer hide, as councils’ new powers under the Renters’ Rights Act kick in to investigate and clamp down harder.

Local authorities across England are set to receive an extra £41 million to cover costs for new enforcement powers through the landmark Renters' Rights Act.

Crisis Chief Executive Matt Downie said: 

“Today marks an important milestone for the millions of people renting across England who have lived without stability and security for far too long.

Private renters will finally be able to breathe a sigh of relief without the threat of a ‘no fault’ eviction or an unfair rent increase pushing them into homelessness.

Section 21 evictions have long been one of the leading causes of homelessness. As an organisation we have campaigned long and hard to strengthen renters' rights and today’s legislation is a critical step in doing so.

At last, private renters can feel safe and secure in their homes without the threat of an unnecessary eviction forcing them into homelessness.”

A Local Government Association spokesperson said:

“The LGA has long called for the abolition of section 21 no fault evictions, which have been a key driver of homelessness, and adds pressure onto councils and their ability to provide temporary accommodation for their community. 

“Councils are on the frontline of housing support and will be key to making these reforms to the private rented sector work in practice.  

“It is vital that local authorities have the capacity and long-term funding needed to enforce the new system effectively, support tenants, and work constructively with landlords.” 

Harry Rodd