The Renters’ Rights Bill returns to the House of Lords today for the first of three Report Stage debates.
Further sittings are scheduled for 7 and 15 July following the recent completion of the Committee Stage. However, it now appears unlikely that the Bill will receive Royal Assent before the summer recess, which runs from 22 July to 1 September.
As a result, the Bill is expected to become law in September, with implementation likely to begin toward the end of 2025 or early 2026.
The Report Stage is one of the final opportunities for the House of Lords to debate and propose changes to the legislation. Key stakeholders in the sector have been increasing engagement with peers to raise awareness of the Bill’s potential implications and advocate for critical amendments.
Letting agents and landlords are being advised to prepare for the changes by reviewing existing tenancy agreements, staying updated on the Bill’s progress, and seeking expert advice where needed. With the Bill introducing some of the most significant reforms seen in the rental sector in years, early preparation is essential to ensure compliance and reduce future disruption.
Concerns remain regarding the Bill’s impact on specific sectors, particularly student housing. Critics argue that the proposed ban on fixed-term tenancies in private student accommodation lacks sufficient justification and risks worsening existing shortages in availability and affordability. While the Bill includes several positive reforms, there are calls for the government to reconsider aspects that may negatively affect the student rental market before the legislation is finalised.
