What London Landlords Need to Know About the Renters’ Rights Bill: Staying Prepared and Protected
A major shake-up is about to hit the private rental sector – and if you're a residential landlord in London, the Renters’ Rights Bill will affect how you let, manage, and regain possession of your property
Whether you have one flat or a portfolio, this new legislation is not optional. With severe penalties for landlords who fail to comply – including rent repayment orders of up to two years’ rent, fines, and possible court action – now is the time to understand what’s changing and how to protect yourself.
🏠 What Is the Renters’ Rights Bill?
The Renters’ Rights Bill is a landmark piece of legislation aimed at improving security, quality, and fairness for tenants in the private rental sector across England – including here in London. It's currently in the final stages of Parliament and expected to pass into law this autumn.
For landlords, it represents one of the biggest legal overhauls in decades – introducing tighter regulation, banning certain practices, and giving tenants more power than ever.
⛔ What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Landlords who fail to follow the new rules face:
- Rent Repayment Orders (RROs): Tenants can claim back up to two years' rent in cases of illegal eviction or poor property conditions.
- Tribunal Action: Tenants will be empowered to challenge rent increases and poor management via First Tier Tribunals.
- Fines and Enforcement: Councils and the new national Ombudsman can issue hefty fines for non-compliance with health, safety, and licensing rules.
- Name-and-shame risks: The new national Landlord Register may publicly highlight bad actors.
These penalties apply to individual landlords and company directors – no one is exempt.
🔑 Key Changes All London Landlords Must Know
1. 🔚 End of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions
You’ll no longer be able to evict tenants without giving a legally valid reason. Possession will require a Section 8 notice and a court process – which can take months.
2. 📆 No More Fixed-Term Tenancies
All tenancies become periodic from day one. You can’t lock tenants in for 6 or 12 months anymore – giving them far more flexibility to leave.
3. 💷 Rent Increase Restrictions
Only one increase per year allowed. You must give two months’ notice, and tenants can challenge increases through a tribunal.
4. 🐾 Tenants Can Request Pets
You can’t unreasonably refuse pet requests. You can ask for pet insurance, but refusal must be justified legally.
5. 🧾 Mandatory National Landlord Register
Every landlord will need to register, pay a fee, and adhere to a new code of practice monitored by a national Ombudsman.
6. 🛠️ “Awaab’s Law” and Decent Homes Standard
You’ll be legally required to fix serious hazards (e.g. damp, mould) within set timeframes – or face enforcement action.
👋 How Greater London Properties Has You Covered
At Greater London Properties, we’ve supported landlords across Central London for over 20 years – and we’re ready for this change.
✅ Fully Managed Clients – You’re in Safe Hands
We’re already preparing for the Bill. All your legal admin, notices, insurance, rent reviews, inspections, and tribunal prep will be handled by us. No added stress. No missed deadlines. No risk of fines.
💡 Let Only Landlords – It Might Be Worth Considering an Upgrade
With the new Bill introducing extra legal and compliance responsibilities, many of our let-only landlords are choosing to upgrade to our Platinum Management Package. It’s a great way to save time, reduce stress, and ensure everything is handled professionally and in line with the new regulations.
🎓 Upcoming Webinar – Get Expert Advice
We’ll be hosting a free online webinar in the coming weeks alongside a specialist property lawyer to walk you through:
What the new rules mean for your rental
- How to regain possession under Section 8
- Tips for staying fully compliant and avoiding fines
- Live Q&A tailored to Central London landlords
📩 Stay tuned for your invite – or contact us to reserve a spot today.
🧘♂️ Final Word
We know change like this can feel overwhelming. But with the right guidance, it doesn't have to be. Greater London Properties is here to ensure your property stays profitable, protected, and stress-free. Whether you're fully managed or looking to upgrade, we’ll help you navigate this transition smoothly.
Have questions or want to explore our Platinum package? We’re here to help. Just give us a call or drop us an email.
Warmest regards,
The Greater London Properties Team
Your local, independent Central London estate agency