The Renters’ Rights Act represents a major shift in the private rented sector, designed to reflect the reality that renting is now a long-term housing choice for many people. While much attention has focused on how the legislation affects landlords, the Act also introduces important changes that will directly shape the tenant experience.
In our previous blog, The Renters’ Rights Act Explained: What Landlords Need to Know, we explored how the new framework affects property owners and investors. This article focuses on the other side of the relationship: what the Renters’ Rights Act means for renters, and how it aims to create a fairer, more transparent and more secure renting experience.
Greater security and transparency for tenants
One of the core aims of the Renters’ Rights Act is to give tenants greater confidence in their housing situation. For many renters, uncertainty around tenancy length, rent increases and eviction has historically made it difficult to plan ahead. The Act seeks to address this by strengthening security of tenure and setting clearer expectations for both parties.
The removal of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions is central to this change. Under the new rules, tenants can no longer be asked to leave without a specific legal reason. This means renters have greater reassurance that they will not lose their home unexpectedly, provided they meet their tenancy obligations.
Transparency is also improved through clearer, more formal processes. Rent increases must follow a prescribed legal route, with advance notice and the right to challenge unfair rises. This gives tenants a better understanding of how and when their rent can change, reducing the risk of sudden or unexplained increases.
Changes to tenancy structures and tenant rights
The Renters’ Rights Act replaces fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies with open-ended periodic tenancies as the default structure. For tenants, this introduces greater flexibility and stability.
Rather than being tied to a fixed end date, tenants can remain in their home for as long as they wish, provided they comply with the terms of the tenancy. At the same time, they retain the right to leave by giving the required notice, without being locked into long contracts that no longer suit their circumstances.
The Act also strengthens tenants’ rights in relation to property standards. Measures such as the extension of Awaab’s Law into the private rented sector mean that landlords must investigate and address serious hazards, including damp and mould, within defined timeframes. This creates a clearer expectation that rented homes should be safe, healthy and properly maintained.
In addition, tenants will benefit from access to a mandatory Private Rented Sector Ombudsman. This provides a clear route for resolving complaints where issues cannot be resolved directly, without the need for costly or stressful court action.
What these changes mean in practice
While the Renters’ Rights Act introduces stronger protections, it also places greater emphasis on communication and cooperation. Tenants will still be expected to meet their responsibilities, such as paying rent on time and looking after the property. The Act is designed to create balance, not remove accountability.
For tenants, understanding their rights – and how to use them appropriately – will be key. Clear documentation, written notices and formal processes will become the norm, reducing ambiguity and helping both parties understand where they stand.
The role of professional letting agents
As the private rented sector becomes more regulated, the role of professional letting agents becomes increasingly important. Navigating new legislation, understanding rights and responsibilities, and ensuring processes are followed correctly can be complex for both landlords and tenants.
A professional letting agent acts as an informed and impartial intermediary. For tenants, this means:
- Clear communication about tenancy terms and rights
- Prompt and documented handling of maintenance issues
- Fair and transparent rent review processes
- Access to professional guidance if concerns arise
At Durrants, our lettings team is committed to delivering a positive tenant experience alongside full legal compliance. We ensure tenancies are set up correctly, issues are addressed efficiently, and communication remains clear and respectful throughout.
Looking ahead
The Renters’ Rights Act signals a cultural shift in renting – one that places greater emphasis on stability, professionalism and long-term relationships. For tenants, this should mean greater peace of mind, better standards and clearer expectations.
For landlords and tenants alike, working with an experienced letting agent helps ensure these changes are implemented smoothly. If you have any questions or uncertainties about how the Renters’ Rights Acts impacts you as a landlord or tenant, please get in touch with me on eleanor.richards@durrants.com or calling 01986 872553.
