The UK rental market is undergoing significant change with the introduction of the Renters’ Reform Bill, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at enhancing tenant security while maintaining fair processes for landlords. With the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, landlords must now rely on revised Section 8 grounds for possession to reclaim properties.
At Hudson & Brown Residential, we understand that these changes can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer comprehensive landlord solutions, from tenant referencing to legal cover and rent protection insurance, ensuring your rental business remains profitable, compliant, and stress-free.
Key Changes in the Renters’ Reform Bill
1. The End of Section 21 & New Section 8 Grounds for Possession
The removal of Section 21 means landlords can no longer evict tenants without giving a reason. Instead, landlords must use Section 8, which now includes updated grounds for possession:
Mandatory Grounds:
Ground 1 (Amended) - If the landlord or a family member wishes to move into the property, this can only be done after the tenancy has exceeded 12 months
Ground 1A (New) - If the landlord intends to sell the property, this can only be used after the tenancy has exceeded 12 months
Ground 2 - If the mortgage provider wishes to repossess the property
Ground 2ZA - 2ZD (New) - If the leasehold has ended and the landlord does not own the freehold
Ground 4 - If a property was let to a student by an educational institute for a fixed term of 12 months
Ground 4A (New) - For student landlords not affiliated with an educational institution who need the property for new student tenants before the academic year starts
Ground 5 - If a religious organisation owns the property and needs a minister of religion to live in it
Ground 6 - If a landlord wishes to demolish or redevelop the rented property to the extent that the tenant cannot live there
Ground 6A (New) - If the landlord needs possession to comply with enforcement action
Ground 7 - If a tenant has passed away, but this cannot be used if a surviving spouse is living in the property
Ground 7A - If the tenant has committed "serious anti-social behaviour"
Ground 7B - If the tenant does not have a Right to Rent in the property
Ground 8 (Amended) - If the tenant is at least three months in arrears (or 13 weeks if rent is paid weekly or fortnightly
Discretionary Grounds:
Ground 9 - If a landlord has provided accommodation that is like-for-like for the current tenancy
Ground 10 - If the tenant is in rent arrears but is less than ground 8
Ground 11 - If the tenant is constantly late in paying rent, but is not in rent arrears
Ground 12 - If the tenant has breached the tenancy agreement, excluding rent payments
Ground 13 - If the tenant has deteriorated or neglected the landlord's property
Ground 14 - If the tenant is a nuisance or annoyance to neighbours, or using the property for illegal or immoral activity
Ground 14A (New) - Social landlords can evict a domestic violence perpetrator if the victim has fled
Ground 14ZA (New) - If the tenant or adult at the property has been convicted of an indictable offence during a UK
Ground 15 - If the tenant caused damage to furniture provided by the landlord
Ground 17 - If the tenant was given the tenancy with a "false statement"
Ground 18 (New) - The tenancy is for supported accommodation, and the tenant refuses to engage in support
.
2. Introduction of a Property Portal & New Compliance Rules
The government is launching a landlord registration portal to enforce compliance with rental laws. Hudson & Brown Residential ensures landlords stay ahead of regulatory requirements, avoiding fines and penalties.
3. Property Compliance & Maintenance
The introduction of the Decent Homes Standard means landlords must meet specific criteria for property conditions. Estate agents will be instrumental in coordinating inspections, managing maintenance schedules, and ensuring properties comply with new regulations.
4. Changes to Rent Increases & Tenancy Structure
The bill moves towards open-ended tenancies, making fixed-term agreements obsolete. Rent increases are now limited to once per year, with mandatory two-month notices. Our rent review services help landlords adjust pricing fairly while maximizing rental yields.
5. Rental Valuation & Pricing Strategy
Since rent bidding wars will be banned and landlords will need to justify increases, agents will play a key role in setting fair, competitive rental prices based on market data, ensuring properties remain attractive to tenants while maximizing returns for landlords.
6. Adapting Marketing & Lettings Strategies
The rental market will become more tenant-focused, requiring estate agents to refine their marketing approaches. They will need to highlight properties’ compliance with new regulations, competitive pricing, and tenant-friendly policies to attract quality renters.
How Hudson & Brown Residential Protects Landlords
1. Expert Tenant Referencing – The Key to Avoiding Court
One of the best ways to prevent rental disputes and evictions is to let the right tenants in from the start. Our comprehensive tenant screening includes:
✅ Credit & affordability checks to ensure tenants can pay rent consistently.
✅ Employment verification for financial stability.
✅ Rental history analysis to flag past payment issues.
✅ Right to Rent checks to ensure legal compliance.
✅ KYC (know your customer) checks just like the banks to verify identity
2. Legal Cover & Eviction Support
Even with the best tenants, unexpected situations arise. Our legal protection service includes:
✅ Section 8 eviction support – We handle notices and legal proceedings.
✅ Dispute resolution services – Avoid costly court battles with expert mediation.
✅ Court representation – If a case goes to court, we manage the legal process on your behalf.
3. Rent Protection Insurance – Guaranteed Rental Income
A major concern for landlords is unpaid rent. Our rent protection insurance ensures you receive rent payments even if a tenant defaults. Benefits include:
✔ Guaranteed rent payments for up to 12 months.
✔ Legal fee coverage for eviction proceedings.
✔ Vacant property cover – Get paid while we find a replacement tenant.
Why Choose Hudson & Brown Residential?
• Industry Experts – We specialise in London’s rental market, offering tailored advice.
• Comprehensive Services – From tenant find to property management, we cover it all.
• Landlord-Focused Solutions – Our goal is to protect your investment and maximize returns.
• Peace of Mind – With our legal support and rent protection, you’ll never face rental disputes alone.
Final Thoughts: Navigating the Renters’ Reform Bill with Confidence
The abolition of Section 21, the shift to periodic tenancies, and new rent increase regulations mean landlords must adhere to stricter rules. Estate agents will be essential in advising landlords on compliant tenancy agreements, eviction procedures, and rent adjustments, to avoid legal pitfalls.
While the Renters’ Reform Bill introduces stricter regulations, landlords who plan and use expert services can still thrive. Hudson & Brown Residential is here to help you find quality tenants, stay compliant, and protect your rental income.
If you’re a landlord looking for a reliable partner, get in touch today for a free consultation. Let’s ensure your property investment remains profitable and hassle-free.
Contact us today to learn how we can help!
