The rental market in Camberwell, like much of the UK, is changing – and one of the most significant shifts in years has just come into effect. The Renters’ Rights Act (formerly the Renters’ Reform Bill) is now law, bringing with it new rules for tenancy agreements, evictions, property standards and landlord obligations.
If you’re a landlord in SE5 or the surrounding areas, understanding what this means – and what steps to take – is key to staying compliant and protecting your rental income.
Here’s what you need to know about the Renters’ Rights Act in Camberwell, and how Hunters can support you through the changes.
What is the Renters’ Rights Act?
The Renters’ Rights Act is a major piece of legislation aimed at modernising the private rental sector. It introduces changes to make renting fairer, more transparent and more secure for tenants – while also improving property standards across the board.
Although some parts of the Act will be phased in over time, all Camberwell landlords will be required to comply – whether you own one flat or a larger portfolio.
The biggest changes Camberwell landlords need to know
1. The end of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
This is perhaps the most high-profile change.
- Section 21 notices are now abolished, meaning landlords can no longer end tenancies without giving a specific reason
- All evictions must now be made under Section 8, which requires legal grounds – such as rent arrears, breach of tenancy, or the landlord needing to sell or move back in
- New and updated grounds for possession have been introduced to give landlords more flexibility when needed
For landlords in Camberwell, this means clear documentation and communication are more important than ever – and working with a letting agent can help you manage this confidently.
- All tenancies will become periodic
- Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced with open-ended periodic tenancies
- Tenants can give two months’ notice at any time
- Landlords will need to follow strict rules when regaining possession – again, under Section 8
This offers more flexibility for tenants, but puts the focus on building strong, well-managed tenancies from the outset.
3. A new standard for property conditions
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces a new legal standard based on the Decent Homes Standard, already used in social housing.
Private rented properties must:
- Be free from serious hazards (e.g. damp, mould, unsafe electrics)
- Be in a reasonable state of repair
- Have reasonably modern facilities and services
- Provide insulation and effective heating
For older flats in period buildings – common in parts of Camberwell like Denmark Hill or Myatts Fields – proactive maintenance and insulation upgrades may be needed to stay compliant.
4. A national landlord register and portal
All landlords will be required to:
- Register themselves and each rental property on a new government-run portal
- Confirm that their properties meet legal standards and safety requirements
- Keep their listings and compliance documents up to date
This change is designed to make the market more transparent and to weed out rogue landlords. But if you’re already following the rules, it’s simply a matter of good admin – and Hunters can help you stay on top of it.
5. Changes to rent increases
- Landlords can only increase rent once per year
- You must give tenants at least two months’ notice
- Tenants will have the right to challenge excessive increases through a tribunal
This makes setting fair, market-aligned rents from the start more important – and another reason to review your local rental pricing regularly.
How will this affect landlords in Camberwell?
Camberwell has a diverse and in-demand rental market, with tenants ranging from working professionals and NHS staff to students and creatives. These changes mean:
- Tenants will stay longer, and expect higher standards
- Landlords will need to be more proactive and professional
- Good management will make a real difference – particularly in avoiding disputes or void periods
For landlords who offer well-presented, energy-efficient, and legally compliant homes, there’s nothing to fear. These new rules simply bring the market closer to what many responsible landlords are already doing.
What steps should you take now?
You don’t need to overhaul your whole approach – but there are a few smart things you can do now to prepare:
- Review your tenancy agreements and notice processes
- Schedule a property inspection to check for any outstanding repair or compliance issues
- Check your EPC rating and insulation standards
- Talk to your agent (that’s us!) about your Section 8 options if you plan to regain possession
- Get ready for registration and compliance tracking under the new landlord portal
How Hunters Camberwell can help
At Hunters Camberwell, we work with landlords every day – from first-time investors to experienced portfolio owners – to help them let with confidence and stay ahead of legislation.
With these changes now law, we can support you by:
- Reviewing your tenancies and documentation
- Helping you understand the new rules around evictions
- Offering full property management for stress-free compliance
- Providing guidance on property upgrades, EPCs and rental pricing
- Managing communication with tenants to keep everything transparent
Final thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Act in Camberwell brings big changes – but it also brings a more professional, predictable rental market for everyone involved.
If you’re already working with a good agent and managing your properties well, you’re in a strong position. If not, now’s the time to put systems in place – and we’re here to help.
Need support?
Whether you’re managing your own tenancy or thinking about switching to full property management, we’ll help you navigate the changes smoothly.
Book a landlord consultation or contact our Camberwell team for tailored advice and support.
