England’s 11 million private renters have today gained the biggest boost to their rights in a generation, as Labour’s Renters’ Rights Bill officially becomes law. The new Renters’ Rights Act delivers on Labour’s Plan for Change manifesto commitment to create a fairer housing system and rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants.

For too long, renters have been left vulnerable to unfair treatment, poor conditions, and insecurity. This historic legislation changes that – ensuring people in Selly Oak and across the country have stronger protections and greater stability in their homes.

Ending ‘No-Fault’ Evictions

At the heart of the new law is the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions – a practice that has left thousands at risk of homelessness. Tenants will now be able to challenge poor housing conditions or unfair rent increases without the fear of losing their home. This major reform will finally consign Section 21 evictions to history.

A Simpler, Fairer Tenancy System

All assured tenancies will now become periodic, giving renters more flexibility and security. Tenants will be able to end their tenancy with two months’ notice, while landlords will still have fair and reasonable grounds to regain possession of their property when necessary. This new structure ensures a balance between tenant protections and landlord rights.

Stronger Protections and Higher Standards

The Renters’ Rights Act also introduces a series of measures to improve quality and fairness in the private rented sector:

• Bidding wars banned: It will now be illegal for landlords or agents to ask for or accept offers above the advertised rent. 
• Decent Homes Standard extended: For the first time, private renters will benefit from the same basic standards as those in social housing, ensuring safer, better quality homes. 
• Awaab’s Law applied to private rentals: Landlords will face clear deadlines to address serious hazards like damp and mould. 
• Fair treatment for all tenants: It will be illegal to discriminate against people with children or those receiving benefits. 
• Pet rights strengthened: Landlords must consider pet requests fairly, and tenants can be asked to provide pet insurance to cover any damage. 

New Systems for Fairness and Accountability

To make the new system work for everyone, the Act also creates a new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman to provide quick, binding resolutions to disputes. A Private Rented Sector Database will help landlords meet their legal obligations and give tenants reliable information before signing a tenancy agreement.

Local authorities will have expanded powers to enforce these new rules, including stronger penalties for repeat offenders and new requirements to report on enforcement activity.

A Landmark Change

This is the most significant shake-up of the rental market in almost forty years – one that levels the playing field between tenants and landlords. By abolishing unfair evictions, improving housing standards, and giving renters more control, Labour is delivering on its promise to put fairness, dignity, and security at the heart of the housing system.

The Renters’ Rights Act marks a turning point for renters in Selly Oak and across the country – creating safer, fairer, and more secure homes for millions.