The Renters’ Rights Bill: What Happens Next for South London Landlords
The Renters’ Rights Bill (formerly the Renters’ Reform Bill) is one of the biggest overhauls to the private rented sector in decades. After months of debate and amendments, it’s now close to receiving Royal Assent, with the first reforms expected to take effect in early 2026.
For South London landlords, now is the time to start preparing and reduce any risk posed by these significant reforms.
Where does the Renters’ Rights Bill stand right now?
The Renters’ Rights Bill is awaiting final approval before becoming law. The National Residential Landlords Association has confirmed that Royal Assent is expected shortly.
Although the exact start date has yet to be confirmed, most experts, including The Independent Landlord, anticipate a phased rollout beginning in spring 2026, giving landlords a valuable window of time to get organised.
One of the most significant changes will be the launch of a national Property Portal. This new digital platform will serve as a central register for landlords and a hub for compliance information.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities says the portal will support responsible landlords by making compliance simpler and more transparent. It will also help tenants and local authorities identify well-managed homes and tackle poor practice more effectively.
Every landlord will need to register their properties and upload key documentation such as gas safety certificates, deposit protection details, and HMO licences.
You can start preparing by checking that your certificates and licences are up to date, storing digital copies securely, and ensuring your letting agent holds accurate versions of every document.
Urban Village Homes’ lettings team is already helping South London landlords get ready by setting up secure online folders and reviewing compliance records. So, when registration begins, you’ll already be prepared to move quickly and confidently.
The end of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions and the shift to rolling, periodic tenancies mean most existing fixed-term agreements will need to be updated before the new rules come into effect.
Guidance from Simply Business suggests that reviewing tenancy documents early is one of the easiest ways to stay ahead of reform.
When updating your contracts, check that they:
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Remove references to Section 21 notices and fixed-term end dates.
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Include clear rent review processes that follow the new once-per-year limit.
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Reflect fair-use and pet clauses in line with the upcoming tenant rights.
Making these changes now prevents a last-minute rush and minimises the risk of disruption. Urban Village Homes can review your current agreements and highlight where updates will be required ahead of 2026.
The Decent Homes Standard will soon extend to privately rented properties, setting clear expectations for property safety, repair, and comfort. Every home must be warm, secure, and free from hazards such as damp or mould.
According to The Independent Landlord, local authorities will have stronger enforcement powers once the Bill becomes law, including the ability to issue fines or rent repayment orders for non-compliance.
While your property most likely meets the expectations, a property audit can offer peace of mind and extra certainty.
Urban Village Homes’ property management team works closely with trusted South London contractors and can help you review your maintenance records, arrange inspections, and budget for any repairs or energy-efficiency improvements.
Urban Village has supported South London landlords through every major housing reform for more than a decade. Our lettings team combines local expertise with practical, hands-on support.
We are already:
- Reviewing tenancy agreements to ensure compliance with the new legislation.
- Conducting early property audits to prepare for the Decent Homes Standard.
- Organising documentation for easy registration on the Property Portal.
- Offering clear, tailored advice on rent reviews, communication, and fair-use policies.
It might feel like the legislation is taking away crucial control over your own property, so our goal is to help you stay confident and ready for what comes next.
Staying ahead of reform
The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to reshape how renting works in England, and for most landlords, the best response is proactivity.
At Urban Village, we’re already helping South London landlords make the transition smoothly. Our Lettings Team can review your current setup, highlight what needs attention, and provide practical, tailored advice to keep you compliant and confident.
Get in touch with us today to book your readiness review and make sure your properties are primed and ready for 2026.