These updates are designed to give renters more security, while making sure there are clear and fair expectations for landlords.
What’s changing?
- End of section 21 “no fault” evictions - landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without giving a valid reason.
- Introduction of assured periodic tenancies - these will replace assured shorthold tenancies and roll on a monthly basis with no fixed end date. If you’re a tenant, you can choose to leave at any time by giving two months’ notice.
- Clearer, fairer reasons for eviction - landlords will only be able to evict tenants if they have a valid reason.
- Changes to rent increases - rent can only be increased once a year and must reflect the current market rate. Landlords will need to give at least two months’ notice of any increase.
- No rental bidding and asking for more than one month’s rent in advance -
It will be illegal for landlords or agents to ask for, or accept, offers above the advertised rent. - An end to discrimination - landlords won’t be allowed to refuse tenants because they have children or receive benefits.
- Pets in rented homes - tenants will have the right to request a pet. Landlords must consider these requests and cannot unreasonably refuse them.
The council will take on new responsibilities to make sure these rules are followed. We are committed to supporting the many responsible landlords in our borough to understand and meet the new requirements, while taking action where rules are not being followed.