Tenant Rights Under the Renters' Rights Act
What the Renters Rights Act 2025 means for tenants in England — the end of no-fault evictions, stronger security of tenure, rent increase rules, the right to keep pets, and the new ombudsman.
Tenant Rights Under the Renters' Rights Act
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is the most significant change to tenant protections in England for decades. It abolishes no-fault evictions, gives tenants stronger rights to keep pets, restricts rent increases, and introduces a new private rented sector ombudsman.
The End of No-Fault Evictions
Your landlord can only end your tenancy if they have a specific legal ground for possession under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988. If you receive an eviction notice, do not leave immediately without taking advice. Many notices served since the Act came into force are technically defective.
Rent Increases
Landlords can only increase rent once per year and must use the prescribed Section 13 notice procedure. Rent increases are limited to the market rent for a comparable property in the local area. If you believe a proposed rent increase is above market rate, you can challenge it at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
The Right to Keep Pets
The Act introduces a right for tenants to request permission to keep a pet. Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse.
The Private Rented Sector Ombudsman
A new mandatory ombudsman scheme now covers all private landlords in England. Membership of the scheme is compulsory for landlords, and non-membership is an offence.
This article provides general legal information only. It is not formal legal advice and does not create a solicitor-client or barrister-client relationship. If you need advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified legal professional.
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