Big changes are coming to the private rented sector – and landlords in Northwich need to be ready. The proposed Renters’ Rights Bill aims to reshape the way rental properties are let and managed across England. If you’re a buy-to-let landlord or considering investing in Northwich, now is the time to get familiar with what the Bill means for you.
In this article, we’ll break down what the Renters’ Rights Bill involves, how it’s likely to affect landlords locally, and the practical steps you can take to stay ahead. With insight from national data sources and local knowledge from Belvoir Northwich, this guide is designed to help you protect your investment and prepare for what’s next.
What is the Renters’ Rights Bill?
The Renters’ Rights Bill is a major piece of proposed legislation aimed at reforming the private rented sector in England. Introduced to Parliament in 2024, the Bill builds on the Government’s earlier Renters’ Reform White Paper and is now working its way through the legislative process.
At its core, the Bill seeks to:
- Abolish Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions
- Move all tenancies to periodic agreements
- Introduce stronger regulation of rent increases
- Establish a new landlord database and redress scheme
- Strengthen tenants’ rights in areas like pets and discrimination
These changes are designed to give tenants more stability and clarity. But for landlords, they introduce new compliance duties, tighter rules, and a significant shift in how property investments are managed.
Key changes for landlords to understand
Here’s a closer look at the most important parts of the Renters’ Rights Bill and how they affect landlords:
End of no-fault evictions (Section 21 ban)
Section 21 currently allows landlords to regain possession of their property without giving a reason. Under the new rules, this will be scrapped, meaning landlords can only evict using specific grounds (e.g. selling the property, tenant breach).
Tenancies become periodic
Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will be replaced with open-ended agreements. Tenants will be able to give two months’ notice at any time. Landlords will need to use approved grounds for ending a tenancy.
New rules on rent increases
Rent rises will be limited to once per year and must follow a set process. Tenants will have more power to challenge unfair increases via the First-tier Tribunal.
Mandatory landlord database and redress scheme
All landlords will need to register properties in a new national portal. They must also join a government-approved redress scheme, creating more transparency and accountability.
Expanded tenant rights
The Bill strengthens rules around discrimination and gives tenants the right to request pets in rental properties. Landlords will need a valid reason to refuse.
What this means for landlords in Northwich
While the Bill affects landlords across England, the impact will be felt differently in every local market. In Northwich, the implications are particularly important to understand if you own, manage or plan to invest in rental property.
Northwich market overview
According to Rightmove, the average property price in Northwich over the past 12 months is around £237,000. Semi-detached properties dominate the local market, with average sold prices near £235,000. Terraced homes come in slightly lower, averaging £210,000.
On the rental side, Zoopla reports that average monthly rents in Northwich range between £700 and £950 depending on property type. This offers landlords solid gross yields, particularly in the town’s high-demand zones and for well-maintained homes near schools or transport links.
However, the Renters’ Rights Bill introduces new variables. Let’s explore what they mean in practice.
Practical implications for local landlords
Tenant selection and turnover
Landlords in Northwich may need to rethink their approach to tenant referencing and risk management. With the shift to periodic tenancies and stronger tenant protections, it becomes harder to plan fixed-term lets or remove a tenant without cause.
This means greater reliance on thorough referencing, guarantors, and possibly rent guarantee insurance to protect income. It also puts more importance on good communication and proactive management.
Rental income and yields
Rent increases will be more tightly regulated, so landlords can no longer rely on frequent hikes to keep up with rising costs. This makes it essential to set realistic rents from the outset and to budget carefully for longer-term returns.
Landlords must also account for new compliance costs, such as redress scheme fees, database registration, and possible fines for non-compliance. These can eat into profits if not planned for.
Property management and compliance
More admin is coming. The landlord register and redress scheme mean extra documentation, updates and oversight. Working with a professional letting agent becomes more valuable, as agents can handle these responsibilities and ensure your property stays compliant.
From EPCs and deposit schemes to new repair standards and tenancy notices, the paperwork will matter more than ever. Non-compliance may lead to enforcement or fines.
Strategic decisions and planning
Some landlords may view the Bill as a tipping point – choosing to sell up or reduce their portfolio. But others will see opportunity, particularly in towns like Northwich where demand remains high.
For example, well-presented family homes in areas like Leftwich, Kingsmead or Hartford are still in demand. By focusing on low-maintenance properties and long-term tenants, landlords can adapt to the new rules while still generating healthy returns.
It’s also a chance to review your portfolio and consider whether certain properties should be improved, refinanced or re-let to different tenant types.
What landlords in Northwich should do now
1. Audit your tenancy agreements and compliance
Start by checking your current tenancy types and renewal dates. Identify any fixed-term agreements due to expire soon. Make sure all documents are up to date, including deposit certificates, gas safety, and EPCs.
2. Prepare for the new tenancy rules
Review how your approach will change when fixed-term tenancies are phased out. Build contingency plans in case tenants leave with short notice or stay longer than expected.
3. Check your finances and yield assumptions
Work out how much you rely on rent increases and what your net yield looks like after costs. Use realistic assumptions about rent growth and factor in compliance expenses.
4. Speak to a local expert
The Belvoir Northwich team is already supporting landlords across Cheshire as they prepare for these changes. We can help you:
- Understand the timeline and what to expect
- Get your documentation in order
- Find new tenants who are a good fit
- Keep your rental income steady and secure
You can book a free rental valuation or property consultation here.
5. Stay informed
Although the Renters’ Rights Bill is still going through Parliament, the broad direction is clear. Being proactive now puts you in control.
We recommend:
- Signing up to property news alerts
- Following industry experts
- Checking government updates
- Speaking to letting agents with legal and compliance expertise
Is now still a good time to invest in Northwich?
Despite the regulatory shake-up, many of the fundamentals in Northwich remain strong:
- Good rental demand from commuters, families and local workers
- Well-priced homes that deliver solid yields
- Growing population and strong local schools
What changes is how you approach the investment. Buy-to-let in 2025 and beyond will require more structure, documentation and strategy. But with the right support, landlords can still thrive.
At Belvoir Northwich, we’re helping clients buy and manage properties with these new realities in mind. Whether it’s a first-time investment or an expanding portfolio, our team is here to help you make smart, informed decisions.
Final thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Bill is a big change for landlords across England. But for those in Northwich, it’s also an opportunity to future-proof your property portfolio.
By understanding what’s coming and acting now, you can stay compliant, retain good tenants and continue to enjoy strong returns. With the support of Belvoir Northwich, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Ready to take the next step?
Book a free rental valuation or landlord consultation today.
