Renters’ Rights Act 2025: How Bidwells Is Supporting Our Landlords Through the Changes

The Act is set to reshape the landscape of residential lettings but for landlords, this is not a moment for panic, it’s a time for preparation. With sweeping changes to tenancy structures, possession rights, compliance obligations, and property standards, working with the right agent has never been more important.

At Bidwells, we’re committed to guiding our landlords through every step of this transition. Our property management and lettings teams are already working to ensure our properties and tenancies remain compliant, protected, and profitable under the new regime. With expert advice and proactive support, we’ll help you navigate these changes confidently and compliantly.

What’s Changing – And What It Means for You

End of ASTs and Section 21 Evictions

The Act abolishes assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) and ‘no-fault’ Section 21 evictions. All tenancies will convert to assured periodic tenancies (APTs), allowing tenants to leave with two months’ notice at any time, and requiring landlords to rely on specific legal grounds to regain possession. This shift removes the flexibility landlords previously had to end tenancies without cause.

Bidwells will review all existing agreements for our managed tenancies and advise on the transition to APTs, ensuring you remain compliant while continuing to let your property with confidence. We’ll also keep you informed of the government’s implementation timetable as it develops.

New Grounds for Possession

The Act expands the Section 8 grounds for possession, introducing stricter notice periods and reinforcing judicial oversight. Grounds include sale of property, occupation by the landlord or family, rent arrears, and anti-social behaviour.

The removal of Section 21, combined with ongoing delays in the court system, is understandably a concern. The new process is more complex and potentially more costly so landlords will need to factor these increased legal and operational costs into their planning. The government has acknowledged these concerns and committed to monitoring court capacity and reducing backlogs.

Bidwells will continue to advocate for our clients and provide expert support in navigating possession proceedings where necessary.

Rent Reviews

Rent increases must now follow a statutory process; only one increase per year is permitted, with a minimum of two months’ notice, and the new rent must reflect market value. Rent review clauses in tenancy agreements will no longer be valid.

Bidwells will manage rent reviews on your behalf, using our expert local knowledge across Cambridge and the wider region to assess market conditions and benchmark your property’s rental value. We’ll prepare and issue compliant Section 13 notices, handle tenant communications, and represent you at the First-tier Tribunal if needed. Our goal is to optimise your rental income while ensuring full compliance and maintaining strong tenant relationships.

Advance Rent Payments

Landlords and agents can no longer require or accept rent payments before a tenancy agreement is signed. Any clauses referring to rent being due before the tenancy begins will be legally unenforceable. Once signed, landlords may only request up to one month’s rent in advance. Importantly, while tenants may still choose to pay rent early for their own convenience, landlords must not require it.

Bidwells is proactively updating all tenancy documentation and internal processes to reflect this change. Our teams are trained to ensure rent is only requested at the appropriate stage, and we’ll provide clear guidance to tenants to avoid confusion and disputes.

Pets, Discrimination, and Rent Bidding

Tenants now have the right to request permission to keep pets, and landlords must respond within 28 days. Discrimination against tenants with children or those receiving benefits is prohibited and rent bidding (accepting offers above the advertised rent) is banned.

Bidwells will assist with tenant requests and ensure the marketing and referencing practices remain compliant with these new standards.

New Compliance Requirements

The Act introduces several new obligations aimed at improving transparency and accountability. These include:

• Registration with the Private Rented Sector Database, where landlords must list themselves and each property they let, including compliance documentation and unique identifiers for advertising.
• Mandatory membership of the Landlord Redress Scheme, providing tenants with access to free, independent dispute resolution.
• Provision of a Written Statement of Terms before a tenancy begins, outlining key responsibilities and terms.

Bidwells will guide you through all of this, ensuring your properties are correctly registered and all documentation is in place.

Property Standards and Awaab’s Law

Landlords must meet the new Decent Homes Standard and address hazards such as damp and mould promptly, under Awaab’s Law, which is now being extended to the private rented sector.

Our property managers will inspect our managed properties and advise on any required improvements, coordinate our trusted contractors for remedial works, and ensure all relevant documentation is up to date, including safety certificates and maintenance records. This way your properties remain safe, compliant, and attractive to tenants.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Civil penalties for breaches range from £7,000 to £40,000, with potential for criminal prosecution in serious cases. Tenants also have the right to pursue breaches through the courts or the new Ombudsman service, with rent repayment orders now extended to cover a broader range of offences.

Our team will monitor regulatory updates, maintain accurate records, and act swiftly to resolve any issues at properties we manage, helping you avoid enforcement action and safeguarding your reputation as a responsible landlord.

Next Steps…

We’ve been planning ahead for some time and have already advised a number of landlords on the best steps for their properties. Once the government confirms the implementation timeline, we’ll be in touch with our fully managed clients where tenancies require a review and arrange any necessary updates.

In the meantime, should you have any queries or would like to schedule a call/meeting to discuss your property needs, please reach out to a member of our team.