Category Archive

From 23rd June 2026, a revised version of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) will come into force. If you’ve never heard of HHSRS before, don’t worry — many landlords haven’t. Yet it’s one of the most important tools local authorities use when deciding whether a property presents a risk to the health or safety of its occupants, …

Since the Renters’ Rights Act came into force, I’ve noticed a growing misconception among landlords and letting agents. Many are becoming nervous about rejecting applicants because they are worried about falling foul of discrimination rules. Questions I’m hearing include: • Do I have to accept enquiries from applicants with pets? • Do I need to provide a Pet Application Form to every …

Since the Renters’ Rights Act came into force on 1st May, one question keeps cropping up: Do existing tenants now need to give two months’ notice, or does the one-month notice clause in their old tenancy agreement still apply? The new legislation is clear that tenants are expected to give two months’ notice when ending a tenancy. However, many existing …

The final key area to be aware of is the future extension of Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard into the private rented sector (PRS). While these changes are not immediate — with implementation expected between 2035 and 2037 — they represent a clear direction of travel for the sector. — What’s changing? Both Awaab’s Law and the Decent …

Later this year, the Renters’ Rights Act will introduce two major compliance requirements for landlords: a national landlord database and mandatory registration with a Landlord Ombudsman. These changes are not optional — and the consequences for failing to comply are significant. — The new landlord database All landlords will be required to: * Register themselves and their rental properties on …

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces a clearer and more formal framework around pets in rental properties — moving away from blanket refusals and towards a more balanced, case-by-case assessment process. — A formal request process Under the new rules, tenants must submit a written request if they wish to keep a pet at the property. In response, landlords are required …

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces a significant shift towards transparency in rental pricing — effectively bringing an end to rental bidding wars. — No more rental bidding Under the new rules, landlords and agents cannot invite, encourage, or accept offers above the advertised rent. This means: * No bidding wars between prospective tenants * No “offers over” conversations * No …

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces clearer and stricter rules around discrimination — particularly in relation to tenants receiving benefits and those with children. These changes will directly affect how landlords advertise, assess, and select tenants. — No discrimination against benefits or families Under the new rules, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants on the basis that they: * Receive Housing Benefit …

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces major changes to how rent can be collected — removing a long-standing option that many landlords and agents have historically relied upon to manage risk. For some landlords, this may prove to be one of the more commercially significant changes within the new legislation. — One month in advance — and no more Under the …