Key changes for landlords in 2025

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There are several key changes on the horizon for landlords this year, some more inevitable than others. In this blog, our property litigation solicitors look at what these expected changes are and how they might affect landlords.

Renters’ Rights Bill (Renters’ Rights Act)

This is something landlords and lawyers alike have been anticipating for several months. If approved, it will introduce significant changes to renting in England, mainly focused on extra safeguards for tenants. The proposed changes include:

  • Fixed-term tenancies are to be replaced with assured periodic tenancies.
  • The right to have pets (and landlords can only refuse with a valid reason).
  • Fairer grounds for possession.
  • New requirements to tackle mould and other hazards.
  • Scrapping ‘no fault’ evictions.
  • Tougher penalties for unpaid rent.
  • Stronger protections for tenants appealing excessive above-market rent.
  • A new Landlord Ombudsman.
  • Decent Homes Standard to apply to the private rented sector.
  • A clamp down on discrimination against prospective tenants with children or on benefits.
  • Rental bidding to end.

The Renters’ Rights Bill returned to Parliament this month. The day after its third reading in the House of Commons, it received its first reading in the House of Lords. The second reading in the House of Lords is on 4th February. It is expected that the Bill will make quick progress, with Royal Assent in or around April 2025. Some provisions of the Bill will immediately become law, others will be rolled out until a later date.

We will provide a full update about the Renters’ Rights Bill when we know more. In the meantime, for more practical advice on unpaid rent or any other landlord and tenant dispute, contact our property litigation lawyers by calling 0117 325 2929 or fill out our enquiry form.

Changes to the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

The Government has launched a consultation on changes to Energy Performance Certificates, including reducing validity periods for EPCs and requiring all HMOs to have an EPC certificate. This consultation ends in February 2025.

The Government is also set to consult landlords on increasing minimum energy efficiency standards for private-rented homes. The minimum energy efficiency rating is currently E unless a valid exemption applies. Again, we will update you on any changes that come into force.

Blog | Update to EPC requirements for new leases

Have you checked your electrics?

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require private landlords to have every electrical installation in the property checked and tested by a qualified professional at least every five years.

As we approach the five-year mark since regulations came into force, it is wise to start planning for your next check as soon as possible to avoid a penalty.

Increases to Stamp Duty

From 1st April 2025, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) will increase by £2,500 for those buying property over £250,000 and for first-time buyers buying a home over £300,000.

If you are considering buying a property to rent in 2025, it is worth bearing in mind the SDLT increase and how this might affect your budget. For a free, no-obligation quote for purchasing a buy to let property, use our Conveyancing Calculator.

Further information

2025 is set to be a significant year of change for landlords and tenants, and we eagerly await clarification on the proposed new laws under the Renters’ Rights Bill.

To speak to our expert landlord solicitors in Bristol, call us on 0117 325 2929 or fill out our online enquiry form.

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