Renters' Rights Act 2024/25: a plain-English guide

The big changes

• No-fault (Section 21) evictions are abolished
• All assured shorthold tenancies become periodic by default
• Bidding wars are banned — landlords must advertise a single asking rent
• Rent in advance is capped at one month
• A stronger right to request pets, with reasonable insurance allowed
• A new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman and a national landlord database

What it means for tenants

More stability, fairer pricing, and a clearer route to complain when things go wrong. You don't lose flexibility — you can still end a tenancy with two months' notice.

What it means for landlords

You'll need watertight grounds to repossess (Section 8) and your evidence trail matters more than ever. Keep your EPC, Gas Safety and EICR current, document your inspections, and use a written tenancy agreement that reflects the new periodic structure.

How DR Rent helps

Our listing flow blocks non-compliant terms automatically. Our compliance hub stores certificates and reminds you before they expire. And our messaging keeps a timestamped record of every conversation with your tenants.