With Parliament's summer break looming, pressure is mounting to pass the Renters' Rights Bill—a sweeping reform that will reshape the lettings landscape. Whether you're a landlord or a policymaker, now is the time to understand what's at stake.
Will It Happen?
It's looking tight, but still possible—though increasingly unlikely.
The Renters' Rights Bill is scheduled for key votes in the House of Lords on 1st, 7th, and 15th July 2025, with Parliament due to recess on 22nd July. If all goes smoothly, it could receive Royal Assent just in time. But the timeline is razor-thin, and any significant amendments or delays could push it into the autumn.
Some government sources have already hinted that they never guaranteed it would pass before summer. Meanwhile, renters' groups are urging urgency, while landlord associations are calling for more time to prepare for the sweeping changes4.
So in short: it's on the calendar, but don't bet the deposit on it.
Key Measures in the Bill
- Abolishes Section 21 'no-fault' evictions – landlords must now give a legally valid reason to regain possession.
- All tenancies become periodic – no more fixed-term contracts; tenants can leave with two months' notice at any time.
- Rent increases limited to once per year – must align with market rates and can be challenged at tribunal.
- Bans rental bidding wars – landlords can't accept offers above the advertised rent.
- Landlord register and ombudsman – mandatory registration and a new redress scheme for tenant complaints.
- Stronger anti-discrimination rules – landlords can't refuse tenants with children or those on benefits.
- Right to request pets – landlords must consider pet requests reasonably, though they can require pet insurance.
- Applies Decent Homes Standard and Awaab's Law – stricter repair and safety obligations.
Our insurance partners, Boswells, have a useful video explaining the Bill in more detail here: Renters' Rights Bill Webinar | Alan Boswell Group
Impact on Portsmouth Landlords
- Reduced flexibility: Without fixed terms, planning around student lets or seasonal turnover becomes harder—especially relevant in a city with a large student population.
- Higher risk profile: Landlords may feel pressured to accept tenants they previously would have screened out, while also facing longer possession timelines if things go wrong.
- Administrative burden: New registration, compliance, and redress requirements will increase paperwork and oversight.
- Potential rent squeeze: With bidding wars banned and rent caps in place, landlords may find it harder to adjust rents in line with demand—especially in high-pressure areas like Southsea.
- Exit temptation: Some landlords may consider selling up, particularly if they rely on short-term lets or have properties that don't easily meet the new standards2.
Why It Matters?
Portsmouth has a unique mix of renters—students, young professionals, long-term HMOs—making it a bellwether for how this Bill plays out nationally. Councillors must prepare for the implications on housing pressure and landlord disengagement. Landlords must get proactive on compliance, communication, and tenancy strategy.