The private rental sector is changing. In 2025, the government’s Renters’ Rights Bill is shaping up to be one of the most significant pieces of housing legislation in recent decades. For landlords in Brighton & Hove, where demand for rental property is already high and the market is highly competitive, understanding how this bill will affect you is crucial.
I’m Nathan Crombie, Director of Belvoir Brighton & Hove, and in this guide, I’ll break down what the Renters’ Rights Bill means for local landlords, how it interacts with the Brighton rental market, and what steps you can take to stay compliant, profitable, and prepared.
Why the Renters’ Rights Bill matters now
The government’s Renters’ Rights Bill aims to rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants. National headlines often focus on “abolishing Section 21 evictions” or “lifetime tenancies,” but the practical impact will be felt most acutely by landlords managing property day-to-day.
Brighton & Hove is one of the UK’s most dynamic rental markets. With a strong student population, a growing community of professionals, and a constant flow of people moving from London in search of lifestyle balance, demand is strong. But the age and variety of the city’s housing stock — from Victorian terraces in Hanover to modern flats on the seafront — mean landlords will need to be ready for the stricter standards and greater tenant protections that come with the Bill.
What is the Renters’ Rights Bill?
The Renters’ Rights Bill is designed to create a fairer, more secure private rented sector. Its core changes include:
- Abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions: Landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without giving a reason.
- Introduction of open-ended tenancies: Fixed-term tenancies will be replaced with periodic agreements, giving tenants more long-term security.
- The Decent Homes Standard: A new minimum housing quality standard applied to all rentals, including private sector homes.
- Greater powers for tenants: Easier routes to challenge poor housing conditions or unfair rent increases.
- Stricter compliance requirements for landlords: From documentation to repair timelines, landlords will need to keep thorough records and meet higher expectations.
How will this affect Brighton & Hove landlords?
Let’s explore the biggest changes and how they will play out locally.
End of Section 21: what it means
The abolition of Section 21 means landlords can no longer serve notice without cause. Instead, possession will only be possible under Section 8 with specified grounds, such as wanting to sell, move in yourself, or tenant breach.
For Brighton & Hove landlords, this is particularly relevant in:
- Student lets: Many student tenancies are structured around the academic year. Landlords will need to use new possession grounds rather than relying on fixed terms ending.
- Short-term or lifestyle lets: The city’s popularity with seasonal workers and movers means landlords must rethink tenancy strategies.
This doesn’t mean landlords lose control entirely, but it does mean processes will be longer and more formal. Good tenancy agreements and clear communication become even more important.
Open-ended tenancies
Tenants will be entitled to stay as long as they wish, unless landlords can demonstrate a valid ground for possession. This could reduce tenant turnover, which in some ways benefits landlords through longer, more stable occupancy.
But it also reduces flexibility for those who want to keep options open — for example, landlords who might plan to sell in the short term.
Decent Homes Standard
The Decent Homes Standard, already in place for social housing, will extend to private rentals. For landlords in Brighton & Hove, this could mean significant upgrades:
- Older Victorian and Edwardian homes may need insulation or damp-proofing.
- Converted flats may require fire safety and structural checks.
- Energy efficiency improvements could become mandatory.
Given Brighton’s housing stock, landlords should prepare for investment in property condition. While this increases upfront costs, it also boosts long-term value and appeal to tenants.
Rent increases
The Bill introduces clearer rules around rent rises. Landlords must give longer notice and tenants can challenge unfair increases.
In Brighton & Hove, where Zoopla data shows average rents rose by over 9% year-on-year in 2024, this could moderate the pace of rental growth. But with demand still outstripping supply — average time-to-let remains under 20 days according to Rightmove — strong yields are likely to continue for well-managed homes.
Opportunities hidden in the challenges
While much of the coverage of the Renters’ Rights Bill focuses on restrictions, there are opportunities for landlords who adapt.
- Stable, long-term tenants: With tenants feeling more secure, landlords may enjoy fewer voids and longer relationships.
- Professionalisation of the sector: Landlords who maintain high standards will stand out from less-prepared competitors.
- Tenant trust: Being transparent and compliant strengthens reputation, reducing disputes.
In a high-demand market like Brighton & Hove, quality properties backed by professional landlords will continue to perform well.
Data spotlight: Brighton & Hove rental market 2025
To put these changes in context, here are some key figures:
- Average monthly rent: Around £1,650 across all property types (Zoopla, early 2025).
- Year-on-year growth: Over 8% increase from 2024.
- Time to let: Fewer than 20 days for well-presented, competitively priced homes (Rightmove HPI).
- Tenant demand: Driven by students, London commuters, and local professionals.
These figures show that despite new regulations, landlords in Brighton & Hove are still well-positioned to achieve strong yields.
Practical steps for landlords to take now
To prepare for the Renters’ Rights Bill, landlords should act early:
- Review tenancy agreements: Check they’re up to date and ready for open-ended tenancies.
- Understand possession grounds: Familiarise yourself with Section 8 rules.
- Invest in property condition: Tackle damp, insulation, and safety improvements before standards tighten.
- Update compliance documentation: Ensure EPCs, EICRs, and gas safety certificates are in place and current.
- Consider professional management: Agencies like Belvoir Brighton handle compliance, marketing, and tenant communication, reducing stress and risk.
Nathan’s advice: Stay proactive, not reactive
“The Renters’ Rights Bill shouldn’t be seen as an obstacle, but as a chance to professionalise and protect your investment. In Brighton & Hove, demand is strong — if you stay ahead of the curve with compliance and quality, you’ll stand out to tenants and reduce your long-term risk. My advice to landlords is to be proactive: don’t wait for the law to change, start preparing now.”
Conclusion: Navigate the new landscape with expert help
The Renters’ Rights Bill represents a significant shift for landlords across England, but especially in Brighton & Hove where rental demand is intense and housing stock is varied. Yes, the changes bring new responsibilities — but they also create an opportunity for landlords to raise standards, secure better tenants, and build stronger long-term returns.
At Belvoir Brighton & Hove, we specialise in guiding landlords through these changes. From compliance checks to full management, we’re here to help you adapt and thrive.
Book a free landlord consultation or rental valuation today.
Because property is personal — and your investment deserves expert care.
