Renter and Landlord Rights Changes in 2025: What You Need to Know

The rental market in the UK is undergoing significant changes with the introduction of the Renters Rights Bill 2025. This new legislation seeks to strengthen tenant protections while imposing additional responsibilities on landlords. However, awareness of these changes remains low, with 45% of people unaware of the new bill, according to research conducted by Giambrone and Partners in March 2025.

While the Bill introduces greater security for tenants, it has been met with resistance from landlords, with 75% of those surveyed opposing all new provisions. This guide outlines the key elements of the bill, what tenants and landlords can expect and how to effectively navigate potential legal challenges.

Click on the relevant link to visit that section:

• What is the Renters Rights Bill 2025?

Find out more about the new laws possibly coming into effect

• What Can I Expect from the 2025 Renters Rights Bill?

Delve deeper into the ins and outs of the 2025

• What Should I Do if a Landlord or Tenant Breaks the Law?

Find out what steps you should take if a landlord or tenant violates any laws

• How Can a Lawyer Help Me?

Property solicitors are experienced in common disputes

• Property Law at Giambrone and Partners

Here’s how we can assist

What is the Renters Rights Bill 2025?

The Renters Rights Bill 2025 is a significant reform relating to property law, introducing new protection for tenants and placing additional obligations on landlords. The Bill aims to deliver a fairer and more balanced rental market, addressing common concerns about tenant security and rights.

This Bill comes in response to growing demands for tenant protections regarding issues such as eviction practices, pet ownership and the ability to challenge unfair rental conditions. While 56% of renters agree with the proposed changes, 75% of landlords included in the survey did not agree that any of the new laws were beneficial. These statistics highlight the divide between the needs of tenants and the concerns of property owners.

What Can I Expect from the 2025 Renters Rights Bill?

The Renters Rights Bill 2025 introduces several changes that will impact both tenants and landlords. The most notable amendments include, but are not limited to:

Protection Against Eviction in the First 12 Months

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a 12-month eviction protection period. Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants within their first year of tenancy. However, there are some exceptions where the tenant has breached the lease agreement, engaged in criminal activity, or failed to pay rent. This provision has been accepted by renters, as it offers greater housing security and reduces the risk of sudden eviction.

Strengthened Rights to Request a Pet

Tenants also have a stronger right to request permission to keep a pet in their rental property. Landlords must provide a reasonable explanation for refusing such requests. This change has been one of the most popular amendments among renters, as many previously struggled to find pet-friendly rentals.

Additional Protections Against Unfair Rent Increases

The Bill strengthens rent increase controls, requiring landlords to justify and provide advance notice before raising rents. Tenants will also have the right to challenge excessive rent hikes through an independent tribunal.

Requirements for Minimum Housing Standards

Landlords must ensure that rental properties meet new minimum housing standards. This includes addressing damp and mould issues, ensuring proper insulation and providing energy-efficient heating. These requirements are aimed at improving living conditions for tenants while holding landlords accountable for property maintenance.

Clearer Processes for Dispute Resolution

With 50% of survey respondents stating they would seek legal advice if their landlord or tenant failed to abide by the new laws, the government has introduced improved dispute resolution mechanisms. Tenants and landlords will have access to mediation services and streamlined legal channels to resolve conflicts efficiently.

You can find out more about the provisions of the new bill on the Government’s website here.

What Should I Do If a Landlord or a Tenant Breaks the Law?

If either a landlord or tenant fails to comply with the Renters Rights Bill 2025, it is essential to take the following steps:

For Tenants:

• Document the issue: Keep records of correspondence, lease agreements and any breaches of the law.
• Communicate with your landlord: Raise any issues formally in writing.
• Seek legal advice: If the landlord still fails to comply, seek legal guidance to determine the best course of action.
• Report violations: Depending on the issue, tenants can report landlords to local housing authorities or take the matter to a tribunal.

For Landlords:

• Ensure compliance: Familiarise yourself with the new rules to avoid potential disputes arising.
• Communicate with tenants: Open communication can prevent misunderstandings and legal action.
• Seek legal support: In the event of a tenant breaching the terms of the agreement, professional legal advice can help resolve disputes lawfully.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me?

The legal aspects of the rental market can be daunting, regardless of whether you are a tenant or a landlord. Lawyers provide essential services, including:

• Legal representation in disputes: Regardless of whether you are a tenant facing unfair eviction or a landlord dealing with contract breaches, experienced legal professionals ensure your rights are protected.
• Advice on compliance: Landlords can seek guidance on complying to the new regulations to avoid legal issues.
• Assistance with contracts: Reviewing and drafting rental agreements to ensure they align with current laws.
• Mediation and negotiation: Resolving conflicts before they escalate into court proceedings.

Given that 50% of our survey respondents expressed an intent to seek legal advice in case of disputes, professional legal assistance will likely be in high demand as these changes take effect. At Giambrone and Partners, we specialise in commercial landlord and tenant disputes, click here to learn more about our services on our real estate page of the website.

Property Law at Giambrone and Partners

At Giambrone and Partners, our commercial real estate specialists have extensive experience in landlord-tenant disputes, contract law, and regulatory compliance. We will provide you with expert legal advice tailored to your individual situation, ensuring you understand your rights and obligations under the new Renters Rights Bill 2025.

If you need legal guidance, whether as a commercial landlord navigating new regulations or a tenant asserting your rights, our team is here to assist you. Contact Giambrone and Partners today for professional legal support in all matters related to rental property law.