Kate Faulkner OBE explores why landlords need not dread the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, and instead use the next few months to get prepared.
The consumer press is full of news about the Renters’ Rights Bill and its impact, focusing on the additional rights it grants tenants. Meanwhile, the property and trade press aimed at anyone lettings services or owning a property are focusing on the potential horror scenarios of the Bill, mainly caused by the loss of rights for landlords, most notably, the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions.
Now, it’s true that the Renters’ Rights Bill will be a big change—for both tenants and landlords. Landlords will lose some rights, making letting property in England more difficult and risky. And, on the surface, for many tenants, their life as renters will get just that bit better – provided they can secure a rental in what is likely to be an increasingly competitive market.
Will the Renters’ Rights Bill make letting more difficult?
For those landlords who let a property legally and safely, treat their tenants well, and intend to be ‘landlords for life’, once the changes have been implemented, while compliance may become more demanding and the risk slightly higher, long-term landlords could see stronger returns as reduced landlord numbers drive rental demand higher.
However, if you’re an accidental landlord—especially one managing a property without professional support—the message from the government is clear: either work with a qualified letting agent or consider selling up.
Landlords have adapted before—and will again
The reality is, as landlords, we are used to seismic changes and we’ve managed to survive them to date, despite the many worries and fears expressed at the time.
Over time, we’ve survived:
- The introduction of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) with its 29 compliance rules
- Handing over deposits to licensed tenancy deposit protection schemes
- Right to Rent checks
- The complexities of GDPR compliance
- HMO licensing requirements
- Minimum EPC ratings
On top of all these changes, for a time, we even managed to navigate our way through 47 changes made to regulations – at speed – during Covid.
In addition, financially, the changes over the last few years have been brutal:
- Section 24 tax changes, meaning landlords pay tax on rental income rather than profit
- Increases in Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)
- Reduction in Capital Gains Tax (CGT) allowances
- Soaring mortgage rates
If we can adapt to all of these changes and still find a way to succeed, we can, albeit with a lot of preparation, continue to provide much-needed roofs over people’s heads after the Renters’ Rights Bill becomes an Act.
How can landlords prepare for the Renters’ Rights Bill?
Whether you need new property investment strategies, financial planning, legal support, compliance guidance, or energy efficiency support, working with industry experts will help you manage these changes effectively.
That’s why events like the Landlord Investment Show on 19th March 2025 at Old Billingsgate, London, are invaluable. Organised by Tracey and Steve Hanbury, this event brings together genuine experts who will help you make informed decisions for yours and your property’s future. Register for your free tickets to the National Landlord Investment Show on 19th March here.
Key takeaway: While the Renters’ Rights Bill will reshape the lettings landscape, proactive landlords who seek expert guidance will continue to thrive.
Written by Kate Faulkner OBE
Kate Faulkner OBE is one of the UK’s leading property experts. She is passionate that most of the problems in the residential property market can be solved if the media, industry and government worked together to educate consumers on how to carry out property projects. To aid this, Kate has set up a free consumer education site Propertychecklists and working groups for Home Buying and Selling and The Lettings Industry Council which are attended by DLUHC.
About the National Landlord Investment Show
Established in 2013, the National Landlord Investment Show connects thousands of landlords, investors and property professionals throughout the UK and is a beacon for anyone with an interest in buy-to-let or the private rented sector. The National Landlord Investment Show is set to return to Old Billingsgate, London, on Wednesday 19 March 2025, marking it’s milestone 90th live show with exclusive panels on important topics affecting the property sector including the Renters’ Rights Bill, New Investors and Women in Property, plus a full day of networking with 100+ property service providers and 50+ seminars with expert key speakers. To find out more, visit the website.
