Gareth Snell MP Welcomes Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and Outlines What It Means for Tenants
Gareth Snell MP Welcomes Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and Outlines What It Means for Tenants
Gareth Snell MP has welcomed the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 which will come into force in stages from today (1st May), describing it as the biggest overhaul of private renting laws in England for decades and a major step forward for the city’s 26,000 private rented households.
The Act will give tenants greater security while setting clearer expectations for landlords.
Gareth Snell MP said: “I am proud that this Labour Government has delivered the Renters’ Rights Act. For too long, renters have faced insecurity, unfair rent practices and the fear of eviction through no fault of their own. This legislation fundamentally rebalances the system, giving tenants the stability they need to build their lives, while maintaining clear, fair rules for landlords.”
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces wide‑ranging reforms to the private rented sector, including:
- An end to “no fault” evictions – Evictions will now only be permitted under specific legal grounds, such as selling a property, moving in themselves, serious rent arrears or anti‑social behaviour, and must follow a formal legal process.
- The end of fixed‑term tenancies – Allowing tenants to stay in their homes for as long as they wish, while retaining the flexibility to leave with two months’ notice if their circumstances change.
- Fairer rules on rent – Rent increases will be limited to once per year and must follow a clear legal process and bidding wars will be banned, meaning landlords cannot demand more than the advertised rent.
- Limits on rent paid in advance – Once a tenancy is agreed, Landlords can request no more than one month’s rent in advance.
- Stronger protections against discrimination – Blanket bans such as “no DSS” or “no children” will no longer be permitted.
- New rights for tenants with pets – Tenants will have a legal right to request a pet.
Further reforms are planned for later in 2026 and beyond, including:
- A national landlord and property register
- A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman to provide free dispute resolution
- Stronger property standards to improve the quality of rented homes
Mr Snell added: “This is about fairness, security, and dignity for renters. The Renters’ Rights Act gives people greater control over their homes and their futures, and it is a vital part of this government’s commitment to fixing a broken housing system.”