The Renters’ Rights Bill has now officially become law, having received Royal Assent on 27 October 2025.
This marks one of the most significant overhauls of England’s private rental sector in decades, setting out to reshape the way landlords, tenants, and letting agents operate across the country.

While the Act has now passed, most of its measures won’t take effect immediately. The Government must first introduce a series of detailed regulations explaining exactly how each element of the new system will work in practice.

Renters rights Act 2025: A Gradual Rollout

So far, only one date has been confirmed:
From 27 December 2025, local housing authorities will be granted enhanced powers to investigate potential breaches of rental law.

These new powers will allow councils to:

• Request relevant information and evidence

• Seize documents

• In certain cases, enter business premises where unlawful activity by a landlord or agent is suspected

The wider implementation timetable for other reforms has yet to be finalised.
In his closing statement to Parliament, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook MP confirmed that landlords and agents would be given ample time to prepare before the new system becomes fully operational.

The Next Steps: Periodic Tenancies

One of the biggest shifts will be the move to a universal periodic tenancy system — expected to be introduced within a few months of Royal Assent.

Under the new rules:

• All fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies will be replaced with rolling (periodic) tenancies.

• Tenants will be able to stay in their homes indefinitely unless they choose to leave or the landlord reclaims possession on valid legal grounds.

The Government’s aim is to give renters greater stability and flexibility, while simplifying tenancy arrangements for landlords and agents.

How Landlords Can Prepare

Although the finer details are still being finalised, landlords can start preparing now to ensure they’re ready for the transition.
Recommended steps include:

1. Reviewing tenancy agreements to identify clauses that may need updating

2. Ensuring record-keeping and communication processes are thorough and transparent

3. Familiarise yourself with the new investigatory powers that come into force from December 2025

These initial enforcement measures mark the beginning of a more robust compliance environment, where councils will have greater authority to request documentation and pursue breaches.
Good organisation and documentation will become more important than ever.

Staying Informed

With so many details still to come, staying up to date is key.
At Pass the Keys – Mayfair, we’re closely tracking every stage of the Renters’ Rights Act’s rollout to help landlords stay compliant and confident.

As further commencement dates and requirements are announced, we’ll continue to provide clear updates and guidance.