Renters (Reform) Bill

Key Points

• - Abolishes fixed-term assured tenancies and assured shorthold tenancies, moving to a new default tenancy framework with existing fixed terms generally converting to the new system.
• - New and expanded eviction grounds, including grounds linked to selling the property, landlord building works, and redevelopment, plus protections for tenants in cases of death or where a partner lives with the tenant; specific grounds for students (Ground 4A).
• - Strengthened enforcement and clearer roles, including lead enforcement authorities, county councils, and local housing authorities, plus penalties that can fund enforcement and rules against discriminatory tenancy practices.
• - Expanded scope and clearer definitions for enforcement bodies (e.g., local housing authority, England-only governance), with changes to allow or require certain enforcement functions and transitional provisions for introduction dates.
• - Transitional provisions and timing for implementation, including at least six months’ notice before the first implementation date and about 12 months before the new system applies to pre-existing tenancies; some amendments trimmed or redirected earlier provisions to improve clarity and alignment with enforcement goals.

Progress

The bill is at the Lords’ 2nd reading stage after passing Commons, with extensive Commons Committee Stage amendments aimed at clarifying enforcement, scope, and transition. A carry‑over motion and multiple amendments in 2024 shaped its direction, with the bill continuing its journey through Parliament.

Voting

In the Commons’ report-stage votes, two amendments (New Clause 30 and New Clause 15) were carried with cross-party support, while Amendment 28 was defeated. Liberal Democrats voted in favour of all three amendments, Labour largely opposed them, and Conservatives were divided but contributed to passing two of the amendments. These votes reflect broad cross-party engagement on enforcement, scope, and transitional issues.