The 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 (typically a short stage to tidy any final amendments) and then return to the House of Commons for approval of the amendments from 8 September 2025. Here's our summary of the main changes that agents need to be aware of, and how Propertymark is supporting members through the transition.

 

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Pet insurance requirement withdrawn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 This replaces the earlier proposal for mandatory pet insurance, withdrawn due to concerns about its practicality.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.

 

Councils gain power to conduct surprise visits

Local authorities will be able to enter private rented properties without informing the landlord in advance to prevent unscrupulous operators from hiding evidence of breaches or intimidating tenants.

 

Previously, officials were required to give both residents and owners 24 hours’ notice of enforcement action, and this requirement will remain for residents. Landlords and property owners will now be informed within ‘a reasonable amount of time’ after the entry has taken place.

 

Assured Advice for letting agents 

The Primary Authority scheme enables certain local authorities to provide assured advice that property agents can rely on in seeking to fulfil their obligations. However, until now, the Tenant Fees Act 2019 has not been integrated into the scheme, meaning assured advice was not available.

 

This will be corrected by the Renters’ Rights Bill so agents and professional bodies supporting them, like Propertymark and the Property Ombudsman, can obtain clear guidance on their responsibilities under the 2019 Act.

 

via [Propertymark]