The Renters’ Rights Act 2025: What the 27 October Ruling Means for the Private Rented Sector

At Integra Estates, we’ve always believed that great property advice is built on clarity, honesty, and care. The recent Renters’ Rights Act 2025, which received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, represents one of the most significant changes to the private rented sector in a generation.

This landmark reform will reshape how landlords, tenants, and letting agents operate across England. And while some details are still being finalised, understanding what’s ahead is essential for anyone involved in the property market.

As trusted estate and letting agents in Beckenham, Bromley, Orpington, Catford, Greenwich, and throughout South East London and North Kent, we’re here to explain what the new law means, what hasn’t yet taken effect, and how to prepare confidently for the changes.

The Key Reform: The End of “No-Fault” Evictions

The most headline-grabbing change is the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions under the Housing Act 1988.

This means landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without giving a valid reason. Instead, they’ll have to rely on reason-based or fault-based grounds under Section 8 (or its updated successor) when seeking possession.

Landlords will only be able to evict if:

• A tenant has breached the tenancy (for example, rent arrears or anti-social behaviour)

• The landlord intends to sell or move back into the property

• Major refurbishment or redevelopment is planned and requires vacant possession

This marks a fundamental shift in the balance of rights between landlords and tenants, placing greater importance on clear communication, evidence, and compliance.

What the Act Does

Although the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has officially become law, not all provisions are active immediately. Here’s what to note:

• The abolition of Section 21 is not expected to take full effect until spring 2026.

• Current tenancy agreements and eviction processes remain valid until new commencement dates are published.

• The fine details around possession procedures, periodic tenancy structures, and enforcement mechanisms are still being clarified by the Government.

In short — nothing changes overnight. But now is the perfect time to prepare for what’s coming.

The Main Changes Explained

1. The End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions

From 2026 onwards, landlords will no longer be able to issue a “no-fault” notice to end a tenancy.
Every possession claim will require specific grounds — such as persistent rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or a landlord’s legitimate need to sell or move in.

2. All Tenancies Will Become Periodic

Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced with open-ended periodic tenancies.
This gives tenants greater flexibility and long-term security, while landlords will need to adjust to less predictable end dates and more structured notice requirements.

3. Stronger Tenant Protections and Stricter Compliance

The Act tightens the rules around rent increases, notice periods, and compliance standards.
Key measures include:

• Regulated rent increases and mandatory notice periods

• A ban on rent bidding, ensuring fair and transparent pricing

• Tougher enforcement, requiring landlords to have deposit protection, EPCs, and safety certificates in place before taking any possession action

For landlords, compliance will become absolutely essential.

Market Impacts: What Integra Estates Predicts

As leading estate and letting agents across South East London and North Kent, we see how new legislation quickly affects both the sales and lettings markets.

1. Some Landlords May Leave the Market

The increased regulation and longer tenancy commitments could prompt some landlords—especially smaller portfolio owners—to sell their rental properties.
If this happens, the supply of rental homes could shrink, pushing rents higher in popular areas such as Beckenham, Bromley, Orpington, and Greenwich.

2. A Rise in Chain-Free Properties for Sale

Landlords selling up could lead to an increase in ex-rental properties on the market.
This might benefit first-time buyers, but could also:

• Lengthen average marketing times

• Apply downward pressure on some asking prices

• Slow movement in higher-value segments of the market

3. Tenant Security — But Possible Cost Pressures

For tenants, the changes bring stronger protection and fairer treatment.
However, if rental supply tightens, competition for homes could intensify, leading to higher rents and fewer choices.

While the reforms are designed to protect renters, the government must monitor affordability closely to avoid unintended strain on lower-income households.

What Landlords Should Do Now

Preparation is key for landlords across Beckenham, Bromley, Orpington, and the wider South East London area.

Here’s what we recommend:
✅ Review your tenancy agreements — ensure they are up to date and compliant with current law.
✅ Check compliance — confirm your EPC, deposit protection, and safety certifications are valid.
✅ Plan ahead — possession processes may take longer under the new system.
✅ Stay informed — regulations will evolve; work with an agent who keeps you updated.
✅ Assess your portfolio — evaluate yields, maintenance costs, and long-term investment goals.

Our lettings specialists at Integra Estates can carry out a full portfolio audit and advise you on how to stay compliant and profitable under the new rules.

What Tenants Should Know

For tenants, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 brings welcome stability and fairness.

You’ll benefit from:

• Increased protection from unfair or sudden evictions

• Transparent rent reviews and fairer rent controls

• More flexibility to end or continue tenancies on your terms

That said, demand for quality rental homes may rise — so acting early when renewing or searching is wise. Working with a transparent, reliable agent like Integra Estates ensures you’re fully informed and supported.

What Letting Agents and Property Professionals Need to Prepare For

For agents, this new era demands greater professionalism, compliance, and communication.

Agencies will need to:

• Update tenancy templates and procedures

• Train staff on the new legal requirements

• Communicate openly with landlords and tenants about the transition

At Integra Estates, we’ve already implemented internal changes to help our clients stay compliant and confident. Our goal is simple — to deliver trustworthy, people-first property services that protect your interests.

Integra Estates: Your Trusted Partner Through Change

Big legislative reforms can create uncertainty — but also opportunity. The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 may transform the lettings landscape, yet with the right guidance, both landlords and tenants can thrive.

At Integra Estates, we remain committed to acting with honesty, clarity, and care.
We’ll help you understand how the changes affect your property strategy and ensure your compliance every step of the way.

📞 Call: 0203 870 0000
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Visit: www.integra-estates.com

Let us guide you through this new era of renting — with professionalism, experience, and integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will Section 21 officially be abolished?

The abolition of Section 21 is expected to take effect in spring 2026, although some provisions may phase in earlier.

2. Can landlords still issue Section 21 notices now?

Yes — for now, the current system remains in place until the government confirms commencement dates.

3. What replaces Section 21?

Landlords will need to use reason-based grounds for possession under Section 8 (or its replacement), such as rent arrears, property sale, or anti-social behaviour.

4. Will the new law cause rent increases?

Potentially. If some landlords exit the market, reduced supply could increase competition and rental prices, especially in high-demand areas.

5. How can Integra Estates help landlords prepare?

We provide portfolio audits, compliance checks, and personalised strategy reviews to help landlords stay ahead of new legislation and continue achieving strong returns.