The Renters' Rights Bill has completed its crucial Report Stage in the House of Lords, bringing significant changes and implications for letting agents and landlords. It will now move to its Third Reading in the Lords on 21 July 2025 (this is typically a short stage to tidy any final amendments).
We have had confirmation that the final stages of scrutiny in the House of Commons will begin on 8 September 2025, which means the Bill will not become law until the autumn at the earliest.
Main changes
Student tenancy grounds extended
Propertymark successfully advocated for an amendment extending eviction Ground 4a to cover one- and two-bedroom student properties. This crucial victory allows landlords in student markets to better manage properties around academic cycles.
Pet insurance requirement withdrawn
The UK Government reversed its stance as Peers voted to permit landlords to request an additional three weeks' rent as a deposit to cover potential pet damage. This replaces the earlier proposal for mandatory pet insurance, withdrawn due to concerns about its practicality.
This sensible outcome aligns with Propertymark’s recommendations, balancing landlords' protection with tenants’ rights to keep pets.
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