Renters’ Rights Bill Update: Third Reading Complete – What Landlords Need to Know
If you’ve been keeping half an eye on the Renters’ Rights Bill (previously the Renters Reform Bill), you’ll know it’s been creeping its way through Parliament.
We’ve just hit another big milestone – and it’s one that landlords can’t afford to ignore.
On Monday 21 July 2025, the Bill had its third reading in the House of Lords. Think of this stage as the final check‑over: no big changes, just tidying up the wording and making sure all the amendments are in order.
With that done, the Bill has officially cleared the Lords.
Renters’ Rights Bill Next Stop: The House of Commons
The Bill is now heading back to the House of Commons on 8 September 2025.
MPs will review the Lords’ amendments – this back‑and‑forth process is known as “ping‑pong”.
Once the Commons agrees to the final version, the Bill will go for Royal Assent, which is when it officially becomes law.
Current estimates:
Royal Assent: September 2025
First major changes: Early 2026
A Quick Reminder of the Big Changes Coming in the Renters’ Rights Bill
If you’re a landlord, here’s a refresher on the headline reforms heading your way:
Section 21 ‘no‑fault’ evictions are ending – all new and existing tenancies will become periodic.
Rent increases limited to once a year, with the tribunal system available to challenge unfair rises.
No more rental bidding wars – you must advertise at a set rent and stick to it.
New rules on pets and discrimination – landlords can’t unreasonably refuse pets, and cannot reject tenants on benefits or with children.
A new landlord database and ombudsman – tenants can check landlord compliance and raise complaints more easily.
Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law – private rentals must meet higher repair and safety standards. You can read more about this on our blog: Decent Homes Standard.
Track progress further with Parliament’s Bill Tracker
What This Means for Essex Landlords
If you’re a landlord in Essex, the clock is ticking.
The end of Section 21 will change how you manage tenancies and plan for possession. You’ll also want to get ahead of new property standards and register requirements to avoid fines or delays.
At Essex Property Angel, we’re already helping landlords prepare portfolios and tenancy agreements for the new rules – whether that’s:
Tidying up compliance and documentation now
Advising on portfolio strategies for the 2026 regime
Helping with property sales or portfolio reshuffles if the reforms affect your plans
Learn more about our services →
Our Advice
Do not wait until 2026 to get ready. A little preparation now will save a lot of headaches later.
If you’d like to discuss your compliance or get guidance on how these reforms could affect your portfolio, drop us a message.
We’re here to keep your lettings stress‑free, even when Westminster isn’t.