The Renters’ Rights Bill is one of the biggest housing reforms in a generation – and it’s set to shape the way landlords across England manage their properties.
For landlords in Harrogate, the Bill brings both new responsibilities and fresh opportunities. While change can feel daunting, understanding what’s coming (and preparing early) can make things simpler – and safer – for you and your tenants.
Here’s a clear look at what the Renters’ Rights Bill means, what’s changing, and how Hunters Harrogate can help you stay ahead.
What is the Renters’ Rights Bill?
The Renters’ Rights Bill (previously known as the Renters’ Reform Bill) is the government’s plan to make renting fairer, more transparent and more consistent for everyone involved.
Its main aim is to rebalance the private rented sector – giving tenants more security, while helping professional landlords operate with confidence and clarity.
The Bill is expected to become law in 2025, but landlords should start preparing now. Here’s what it will include.
The end of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
One of the headline changes is the removal of Section 21 notices. Currently, landlords can ask tenants to leave without giving a reason, as long as the correct notice is served.
Under the new rules, this will no longer be possible. All evictions will need to be carried out under Section 8, where specific legal grounds must be met.
Those grounds include rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, selling the property, or needing to move in yourself or for a family member.
What this means for Harrogate landlords
You’ll still be able to regain possession of your property – but you’ll need a valid reason and clear records to support it.
We can guide you through the process and ensure all notices and documents are served correctly.
All tenancies will become periodic
The Bill will also scrap fixed-term tenancy agreements. Instead, all tenancies will start and remain periodic – rolling on a month-by-month basis.
Tenants will be able to end their tenancy by giving two months’ notice at any time. Landlords will need to use Section 8 to end tenancies, giving the correct notice and grounds.
What this means for landlords
It’s a more flexible system, but it also means landlords will need to plan ahead carefully. If you’ve relied on fixed terms in the past, this change could affect how you manage renewals, maintenance and income forecasting.
We can help you adjust your agreements and communications to fit the new rules – without disrupting your rental flow.
A new Decent Homes Standard for private rentals
For the first time, private landlords will be required to meet the Decent Homes Standard – a set of legal criteria already in place for social housing.
This will cover property conditions, safety and energy efficiency. In short, every rented home must be:
- Free from serious hazards (such as damp or unsafe wiring)
- In good repair
- Fitted with reasonably modern kitchens, bathrooms and heating systems
- Warm and energy-efficient
What this means for Harrogate landlords
If you already keep your property in good condition, you’re probably meeting most of these standards. But it’s still worth arranging a property health check before the new rules arrive.
Our property management team can help identify potential issues early – and connect you with trusted local contractors to put things right.
A national Property Portal for landlords
The Renters’ Rights Bill will introduce a new digital Property Portal, where landlords must register their properties and upload proof of compliance.
This is designed to make things more transparent for tenants and local councils – and to ensure landlords are meeting their legal duties.
What this means for landlords
You’ll need to register each property you let and keep key documents up to date – including your Gas Safety, EICR (electrical safety) and EPC certificates.
If your property is managed by Hunters Harrogate, we’ll take care of all of this for you – so you stay compliant without extra admin.
The new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman
All landlords will also need to join a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman.
This will provide tenants with a straightforward, low-cost way to resolve complaints without going to court.
What this means for landlords
It adds another layer of accountability – but it also means disputes can be handled quickly and fairly, without lengthy legal action.
If your property is fully managed with Hunters, we’ll handle this process for you. We’ll also respond to any tenant complaints on your behalf, keeping records and resolving issues efficiently.
Changes to rent increases
Under the new Bill, landlords will only be able to increase rent once per year, and only by serving the correct notice.
Tenants will also be able to challenge unreasonable increases through a tribunal.
What this means for landlords
It’s more important than ever to ensure your rents are fair, evidence-based and properly documented. Regular rent reviews can help you stay competitive without losing good tenants.
We can provide up-to-date market comparisons for Harrogate and surrounding areas – helping you set a fair rate that reflects local demand.
How Hunters Harrogate can help
As the rules evolve, professional support is key. At Hunters Harrogate, we work with landlords every day to make letting simple, safe and successful.
Here’s how we can help you prepare for the Renters’ Rights Bill:
- Review your current tenancy agreements and processes
- Ensure all safety checks and certificates are up to date
- Carry out property condition and compliance audits
- Manage communication with tenants
- Handle registrations with the new Property Portal and Ombudsman
- Provide ongoing advice and updates as legislation develops
Our goal is to give you peace of mind – and to make sure you’re ready, long before the law changes.
Preparing now means fewer headaches later
The Renters’ Rights Bill is about raising standards – not catching landlords out. And by acting early, you can avoid stress later.
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help. Our team can walk you through what’s changing, what it means for your portfolio, and what you should do next.
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