The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to bring the biggest reforms to the rental sector in decades. And while change can feel daunting, Belvoir Christchurch is here to make sure you’re ready for what’s ahead — and fully supported every step of the way.
We’ve pulled together the key changes and what they mean for you as a local landlord.
Section 21 is going – what’s replacing it?
The biggest headline from the Bill is the planned removal of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions. Instead, all evictions will need to follow Section 8 grounds, such as wanting to sell the property, move back in, or serious rent arrears.
At Belvoir Christchurch:
- We already use Section 8 in many cases — so we’re well-prepared
- All notices are served in line with the latest legislation
- Our Rent Guarantee services help protect your income and cover legal costs
Fixed-term tenancies scrapped
Under the new rules, tenancies will become open-ended. That means tenants can give two months’ notice at any time, while landlords must wait until at least 12 months in before they can serve notice (and only on specific grounds).
But don’t worry — Christchurch tenants tend to stay put. The average tenancy in our area lasts well over 3 years.
How we support you:
- We match properties with long-term renters
- Our referencing is rigorous and tailored to your needs
- We encourage tenant loyalty through responsive property management
New rules for rent arrears
To regain possession due to unpaid rent, the tenant must now be at least three months in arrears (up from two). While serious arrears are rare in our portfolio, we act quickly when they do arise. Since 2019 (pre covid) we have only had to act on one occasion when tenants were in arrears, as at today’s date we have zero rent arrears.
Our approach includes:
- Early identification of arrears using real-time monitoring
- Setting up repayment plans where appropriate
- Insurance options that cover income and legal expenses
Tenants can now request pets
The Bill gives tenants the right to request a pet, and landlords can only refuse on reasonable grounds — such as lease restrictions or property suitability.
We help you stay in control by:
- Adding clear pet clauses to tenancy agreements
- Offering guidance on when and how to decline a request
- Providing advice on insurance to cover potential pet damage
Discrimination bans
Landlords will no longer be able to blanket-ban tenants with children or those in receipt of benefits. However, financial checks will remain key.
We handle this sensitively and professionally:
- Every applicant is assessed on verified income and references
- You’ll be advised clearly and transparently
- We ensure full legal compliance throughout the lettings process
Landlords must now join an ombudsman scheme
All landlords will soon be legally required to register with an approved ombudsman to help resolve tenant disputes.
If you’re with Belvoir Christchurch:
- You’re automatically covered by our membership
- We’ll manage disputes professionally and swiftly
- You’ll avoid the time and stress of handling complaints alone
Repairs now come with stricter deadlines
Under ‘Awaab’s Law’, health and safety-related repairs must be:
- Investigated within 14 days
- Repaired within 7 days
- Fixed within 24 hours in an emergency
We’ve already built this into our service:
- Our PropertyFile system lets tenants report issues 24/7. If an issue is reported, it will be investigated within 3 – 5 days, a full report will be produced for both landlord and tenant, and an action plan will be drawn up. Any works are instructed within 48 hours of landlord agreement, and the property is revisited within 14 days to ensure that the issue has been dealt with.
- Our contractors are ready to act fast
- Regular inspections help us catch problems early
No more rental bidding wars
All properties must now be marketed at a fixed asking price — tenants can no longer offer over the asking rent. Advance rent payments will also be capped at one month.
We use local insight and data to:
- Set accurate, achievable rents
- Market your property clearly and compliantly
- Avoid unnecessary void periods
Why landlords choose Belvoir Christchurch
We know Christchurch. We know lettings – we are the only agent in Christchurch that deals exclusively with lettings and property management. We know how to protect your investment in a rapidly changing market.
Whether you’re letting out a single property or managing a growing portfolio, you’ll benefit from:
- Expert guidance from a local, lettings-only team
- Transparent fees and no surprises
- Professional marketing and tenant matching
- Ongoing support to keep you compliant and confident
Need help understanding the Renters’ Rights Bill? We’re here for you.
Chat to our local lettings experts or book a free lettings consultation today.
