Committee Stage of the Renters' Rights Bill set

The Committee Stage for the Renters’ Rights Bill has been scheduled to begin on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

This stage is set to last for six days, concluding on May 14, 2025. However, these dates are provisional and may be subject to change.

What is the Renters' Rights Bill?

The Renters' Rights Bill introduces significant reforms to the private rented sector, aiming to enhance tenant protections and address existing challenges. Key provisions include:

Abolition of 'no-fault' evictions. The bill proposes eliminating Section 21 evictions, requiring landlords to provide valid reasons for terminating tenancies.

Rent increase restrictions. Landlords will be limited to increasing rent no more than once per year, with advance rent payments capped at two months' rent.

Enhanced property standards. The Decent Homes Standard will extend to private rentals, mandating higher maintenance standards and prompt responses to issues like mould and damp.

Tenant discrimination prohibition. Discrimination against tenants based on benefits or having children will be banned.

Pet ownership rights. Tenants will have the right to keep pets, provided they obtain pet insurance.

Implications for landlords

These reforms will require landlords to adapt their practices significantly. The removal of 'no-fault' evictions means landlords must have legitimate grounds for possession, potentially complicating tenant removal processes. Rent increase limitations and caps on advance payments may affect financial planning and cash flow management. Additionally, adhering to stricter property standards will likely necessitate increased investment in property maintenance and compliance. Failure to comply with these new regulations could result in penalties, making it crucial for landlords to stay informed and adjust their practices accordingly.

Renters' Rights Bill: Legislative process and timetable

The Renters' Rights Bill must pass through several stages in both Houses of Parliament before becoming law:

First Reading (House of Commons). The bill was introduced on 11 September 2024.

Second Reading (House of Commons). Debated on 9 October 2024.

Committee Stage (House of Commons). Commenced on 22 October 2024, involving detailed examination and evidence sessions.

Report Stage and Third Reading (House of Commons). Scheduled for 14 January 2025, where further amendments were considered before moving to the House of Lords.

First Reading (House of Lords). Took place on 15 January 2025.

Second Reading (House of Lords). Occurred on 4 February 2025.

Committee Stage (House of Lords). Scheduled to begin on 22 April 2025 and conclude on 14 May 2025.

Report Stage and Third Reading (House of Lords). Dates to be announced but likely to be June/July; further scrutiny and final amendments occur before returning to the House of Commons if changes are made.

Consideration of any amendments. Both Houses must agree on the final text; the bill may shuttle between them until consensus is reached.

Royal Assent. Once both Houses agree, the bill will receive Royal Assent and becomes law, which could be in the Autumn, which is slightly later than originally anticipated.

Landlords should monitor the bill's progress as any future dates are subject to amendment, and prepare for the impending changes to ensure compliance and adapt to the evolving rental landscape.

Renters' Rights Bill compliance consultation

We are offering a free, no obligation Compliance Consultation to help landlords ensure that they're fully compliant with both the existing requirements and the new requirements contained in the Renters' Rights Bill. If we do identify any gaps in compliance, we will help landlords to put an action plan into place to help ensure you aren't exposed to any potential financial penalties.

To arrange yours, call us on 0161 511 5339 or complete our contact form.