The Renters’ Rights Bill is now in its final stages and is set to bring some of the most significant changes to the private rental sector in a generation.

For landlords across Devon, this means preparing early, understanding the key reforms, and making sure your property and processes are fully compliant before the new rules come into force.

The Bill is currently back in the House of Commons and is expected to receive Royal Assent at the end of October 2025. Implementation is likely to begin in either January or April 2026, which gives landlords some time to prepare – but not long to act.

Emma Foreman, Lettings Director at Complete, explains: “This legislation will reshape how landlords let and manage their properties. While some of the changes will feel challenging, it is vital that landlords understand them now and start preparing so they’re not caught out when the new rules go live.”

Here, we break down the five biggest changes you need to know about, together with practical advice from our Renters’ Rights Bill Checklist to help you get ready.

1. The End of Section 21 Notices

One of the most high-profile changes in the Renters’ Rights Bill is the abolition of Section 21, commonly known as ‘no fault’ evictions. Landlords will no longer be able to use this notice to regain possession of their property without giving a reason.

Instead, Section 8 notices are being reformed and expanded. You will still be able to regain possession under specific grounds – for example, if you plan to sell the property or move a close family member in. However, the process will require more evidence and potentially more time.

Checklist tip: Review your current tenancy agreements and plan ahead for possible scenarios where you might need possession. It is worth seeking legal advice to understand how the new Section 8 grounds may apply to your circumstances.

2. Decent Homes Standard for the Private Rented Sector

The Bill introduces a new Decent Homes Standard, bringing the private rented sector in line with social housing. This will place more responsibility on landlords to ensure their properties meet certain quality standards.

For example, if a tenant reports damp or mould, landlords will need to act quickly – both in terms of acknowledging the report and carrying out the repair. The same applies to wider maintenance issues, with clear expectations on response times.

Checklist tip: Carry out a property health check now. Look for potential issues such as damp, outdated electrics, or inefficient heating. Proactive maintenance can save you stress and expense later – and ensure your property is compliant before the new rules arrive.

3. Tackling Discrimination and Allowing Pets

The Renters’ Rights Bill also focuses on tenant rights, particularly in relation to families and pet ownership. Landlords will no longer be able to advertise properties with blanket bans such as “no children” or “no pets”.

In addition, tenants will gain the legal right to request a pet at any time during their tenancy. While landlords cannot unreasonably refuse these requests, there are exceptions – for example, if a head lease prohibits pets, or if the request is unsuitable for the property (such as keeping a large dog in a small flat).

Checklist tip: Review your standard tenancy agreement and be prepared for pet requests. Since landlords cannot ask tenants to take out pet insurance, it may be wise to consider your own insurance cover for pet-related damage. This proactive step can protect your property while also ensuring you stay compliant. Being open to pets could also help you attract a wider pool of tenants.

4. Ban on Rent in Advance

Currently, landlords and agents sometimes ask tenants to pay several months’ rent upfront – often six or even twelve months – particularly if the tenant has an adverse credit history or is starting a new job. The new legislation will ban this practice.

In addition, landlords should prepare for tighter restrictions on when guarantors can legally be requested. This means some of the safeguards landlords have traditionally relied on may no longer be available.

Checklist tip: Review your tenant referencing process now. If you currently rely on rent in advance or guarantors, consider alternatives such as rent protection insurance or premium management products. These can provide peace of mind and financial security while ensuring you remain compliant with the new rules.

5. Landlord Database and Ombudsman

The Bill will also establish a national landlord database and a new landlord ombudsman scheme. All landlords will be required to register, with penalties for those who fail to do so.

The database will give tenants greater transparency about who they are renting from, while the ombudsman will provide a route for resolving disputes without going to court.

Checklist tip: Keep your documentation in order. Make sure you have up-to-date tenancy agreements, compliance certificates, and maintenance records, as these may be requested under the new system.

How Can Landlords Prepare?

While the changes may feel daunting, the key is to prepare early. At Complete, our Renters’ Rights Bill Checklist is designed to help landlords take practical steps. This includes:

  • Reviewing tenancy agreements for compliance with the new rules
  • Conducting a property standards audit to address any issues now
  • Updating insurance policies to reflect pet ownership and new risks
  • Ensuring financial planning does not rely on rent in advance
  • Keeping records organised for the landlord database

Emma adds: “Our advice to landlords is simple – don’t wait until 2026. By making changes now, you’ll be in a much stronger position when the Bill comes into force, and you’ll also protect the value of your investment in the meantime.”

What This Means for Landlords in Devon

The South Devon rental market remains highly active, with strong demand for quality homes. However, as supply increases and regulation tightens, landlords will need to be proactive to stay ahead.

By understanding the Renters’ Rights Bill now, you can not only stay compliant but also ensure your property remains attractive to tenants in an increasingly competitive market.

Download Your Free Renters’ Rights Bill Checklist

The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to transform the private rental sector. For landlords who prepare early, the transition can be smooth – and it could even provide opportunities to improve your property and attract longer-term tenants.

At Complete, we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you own one property or a larger portfolio, our lettings experts can guide you through the changes and ensure you’re ready for 2026.

To help you get started, we’ve created a free, step-by-step checklist: What Landlords Need to Do to Prepare for the Renters’ Rights Bill.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from legal changes to practical property management tips.

Download the Renters’ Rights Bill Checklist now: