Significant changes to the UK rental sector are on the horizon, and from 1st July 2025, the Renters’ Rights Bill is expected to come into full force.
We previously covered the launch of the Bill back in September 2024, outlining how it aimed to raise standards and improve tenant security. But as we approach implementation, landlords need to be prepared for the practical realities of these changes — particularly around legal risk, possession, and rent protection.
If you’re a landlord in Nottinghamshire or surrounding areas, here’s what you need to know right now — and how to protect your income.
What’s Changing & Why It Matters
The Renters’ Rights Bill is part of a broader government agenda to strengthen tenants’ rights and increase regulation in the private rental sector. But while many of the proposals aim to improve transparency and quality, they also increase financial exposure for landlords.
Here are some of the most pressing changes:
1. Section 21 Abolished
- The ability to evict tenants without fault will be removed.
- All future tenancies will be periodic by default.
- Court processes are expected to take longer, and the burden of proof will be higher.
- Guarantor enforcement may also become more difficult under periodic agreements.
Risk: Prolonged possession claims, delayed re-letting, and higher legal costs.
2. Delays to Rent Collection
- Landlords will no longer be allowed to collect the first month’s rent in advance of tenancy agreements being signed.
- Even if a tenant doesn’t pay upfront, landlords must still hand over keys.
Risk: Possibility of rent arrears from day one, with limited recourse in the early stages.
3. Tougher Eviction Process for Rent Arrears
- Current grounds for possession after two months’ arrears will now require three full months’ arrears, plus a four-week notice period.
- This increases both the arrears threshold and the timeline for enforcement.
Risk: Greater income loss, longer voids, and more stress on cash flow.
4. Advance Rent Restrictions
- The option to request 6–12 months of rent upfront (often used with international tenants or those with weaker references) will be removed.
Risk: Fewer tools to mitigate affordability concerns.
The Real Cost: Legal Exposure, Not Just Lost Rent
While arrears remain a concern, the real risk is legal. We’ve seen recent examples where landlords have faced:
- 10-month delays regaining possession
- Legal fees exceeding £8,000
- Bailiffs refusing eviction due to pet presence — requiring specialist handlers (£600+)
These cases aren’t the exception — they are becoming increasingly common as the legislative environment shifts.
Why Rent Guarantee Protection Matters Now More Than Ever
To safeguard your property income and legal position, we strongly recommend our Rent Guarantee & Legal Protection policy. It’s the same protection we use for our own portfolio — and one we stand behind fully.
Key benefits include:
- Up to 15 months of rent covered
- 75% rent cover post-possession for up to 3 months
- Up to £100,000 legal costs covered
- No excess, no gaps, no uncertainty
- Legal representation and court attendance included
- Management fees paid even during arrears
This policy gives landlords not only peace of mind, but genuine financial protection as the sector enters a more complex, regulated era.
What You Need to Do Before July 1st
To ensure compliance — and to protect your portfolio — we are asking all landlords to provide the following by 30th June 2025:
- A copy of your passport and proof of ownership (in line with new PEP & sanctions regulations from May 2025)
- A completed Property Information Questionnaire
- A signed addendum confirming your Rent Guarantee decision (either to opt-in or decline)
Please note: As per our Terms of Business, management fees remain payable even if rent is not received. The Rent Guarantee ensures these are covered, safeguarding your investment and cash flow.
Final Thoughts
The rental sector is changing — and while the Renters’ Rights Bill introduces additional layers of regulation, it also offers clarity and structure. The key is to be proactive, not reactive.
If you have questions or would like to discuss Rent Guarantee cover in more detail, we’re here to help. Whether you manage one property or a larger portfolio, our team can advise you on next steps and ensure you stay protected.
Get in touch today to review your options ahead of July 1st.
