🏛️ The Renters' Rights Bill: The End of “Business as Usual”
This month, the Renters' Rights Bill reaches its final stage in the House of Lords — and once it passes, it will completely transform how landlords operate in England.
Here’s what’s on the verge of becoming law:
- ❌ Section 21 “no fault” evictions abolished — you’ll need a valid, legal reason to end a tenancy
- 🏠 All tenancies will become periodic by default — say goodbye to fixed-term contracts
- 🐾 Tenants will gain the right to request pets, and landlords must provide a reasonable reason for refusal
- 🧾 Rent rises limited to once per year, in line with market conditions
- ⚖️ A new Landlord Ombudsman and Property Portal will be mandatory for every landlord
These aren’t small tweaks. This is a fundamental shake-up of how lettings work — and it’s likely to hit the statute books before the summer recess.
⚠️ What This Means for You
Whether you own a single buy-to-let or a growing portfolio, you’ll soon be legally required to update:
- Your tenancy agreements
- Your eviction processes
- Your policies on pets, rent increases, and repairs
- Your registration with a government-approved landlord portal
- Your complaint-handling process under the new ombudsman system
Ignore these changes, and you risk fines, legal disputes, or being barred from regaining possession of your own property.
📅 31st July: The Tax Deadline You Can’t Ignore
On top of the legislation overhaul, 31st July is the deadline for your second payment on account for the 2024/25 tax year.
If you:
- Earn rental income
- File a Self Assessment
- Or have multiple properties…
…you’ll need to ensure your finances are in order and payment is made on time to avoid penalties.
Now is the perfect moment to review your income, expenses, and allowable deductions — and if you haven’t already, speak to your accountant.
⚡ EPC Rules Are Already In Force
Did you know that since 31st March 2025, all rental properties in England must now have an EPC rating of at least D?
If your property doesn’t meet this standard — and you haven’t applied for an exemption — you could face enforcement action and find yourself legally unable to let or sell the property.
Upgrades, energy improvements, or exemption certificates should be a priority now if they haven’t been addressed already.
🧠 What Smart Landlords Are Doing This Month
✅ Reviewing and updating tenancy agreements
✅ Preparing for the end of Section 21 and adopting updated Section 8 grounds
✅ Planning ahead for EPC upgrades or registering exemptions
✅ Confirming second tax payment deadlines and adjusting budgets
✅ Staying informed — and getting ahead of the Renters' Rights Bill changes
💬 Final Word: Be Prepared, Not Panicked
This isn’t the time to bury your head in the sand.
It’s the time to take action, seek support, and ensure you’re protected.
At Nicholsons, we’re not just here to let or manage your property — we’re here to help you navigate change confidently.
📞 Whether you need help reviewing your compliance, preparing for SecureMove, or future-proofing your portfolio, we’re just a call away.
Let’s make sure you’re ready — because July 2025 isn’t just busy. It’s critical.