Lettings Reform Update – What You Need to Know

As you probably know, the lettings industry never stands still — and the rest of 2025 is going to bring some of the biggest changes we’ve seen in years. The government’s Renters Reform Bill is well on its way, and although it’s not quite law yet, we’re expecting it to land later this summer.

We’ve put together a quick, bite-sized update on the upcoming changes to help you stay informed and prepared—before they take effect!

🔹 1. No More ‘No-Fault’ Evictions (Section 21)

Section 21 is being scrapped. In future, you’ll need to give a valid reason (like selling, rent arrears, or wanting to move back in) using Section 8.

🔹 2. All Tenancies Will Become Periodic

Fixed terms are out. All tenancies will roll month-to-month.

• Tenants can leave anytime with 2 months’ notice.
• Landlords must give 4 months’ notice, and only after the first 6 months.

🔹 3. Rent Increase Limits & Upfront Rent Bans

Fixed terms are out. All tenancies will roll month-to-month.

• Tenants can leave anytime with 2 months’ notice.
• Landlords must give 4 months’ notice, and only after the first 6 months.

🔹 4. Mandatory Ombudsman Membership

All landlords (yes, even if you use an agent) will need to join a national ombudsman scheme.

🔹 5. Property Portal Registration

You’ll need to register your property and show it’s compliant with safety and legal standards.

🔹 6. Pets Must Be Considered

Tenants can now request a pet, and you can only refuse if you have a valid reason (like a lease restriction). You can request pet insurance.

🔹 7. No Blanket Bans

You won’t be able to reject tenants just because they:

• Receive benefits (e.g. Universal Credit)
• Have children
• Want a pet

🔹 8. Awaab’s Law – Faster Hazard Response

Any urgent hazards (like mould or structural issues) must be addressed within 24 hours. This will expand to cover more issues in 2026.

🔹 9. More Funding for Enforcement

Local councils are receiving £16 million to enforce the new rules, which means more inspections and fines for non-compliance.

🔍 Final Thoughts

At Intra Capital Estates, we’ve supported hundreds of landlords across London in navigating the latest legislative changes. While property management is often seen as a reactive service, we firmly believe in taking a proactive approach—helping our clients stay compliant and ahead of the curve.

If you’re a landlord currently managing your own property and feeling overwhelmed by the constant updates and the 170+ regulations involved, you’re not alone. Our team of experts is here to help lift that burden.

Many landlords we speak to initially assume property management is straightforward, but that’s often due to not fully understanding the breadth of responsibilities that come with being a professional landlord. In our view, managing a buy-to-let portfolio is a serious business—one that requires either a deep understanding of your obligations or the right partner to manage it on your behalf (ideally, us!).

Our experienced, Propertymark-qualified team is here for a no-obligation chat about how we can support you and your property journey.

📞 Call us today on 0207 183 6676 or drop us a Whatsapp via the bottom right hand corner of your screen!