Renter's Rights Bill Invokes Lively Committee Debate
Detailed scrutiny of the Renters’ Rights Bill commenced in earnest yesterday, marking the start of what is expected to be a highly debated committee stage. The proposed legislation seeks to significantly reshape the rental housing market in England by abolishing fixed-term assured and assured shorthold tenancies. These would be replaced with periodic tenancies, allowing tenants to remain in a property until they choose to leave by providing two months’ notice. The bill also introduces a range of new obligations for landlords.
Conservative members of the Lords voiced strong opposition to the bill in its current form. During the debate, Baroness Scott of Bybrook, Vice President of the Local Government Association, warned that the bill could discourage landlords from remaining in the market, potentially reducing the supply of rental properties and driving up rents. She argued that while the government’s intentions may be well-meaning, the bill could unintentionally harm the very tenants it aims to protect.
In response to concerns, several peers have proposed amendments intended to mitigate the impact of the reforms. Baroness Janke of the Liberal Democrats suggested capping rent increases at the Bank of England base rate, a proposal supported by Baroness Jones of the Green Party. Another amendment, put forward by crossbench peer Lord Best, would limit rent increases to either wage growth or the Consumer Price Index - whichever is lower. This proposal includes a provision allowing landlords to reset rents to market rates every four years, aiming to balance tenant protection with landlord flexibility.
The committee stage is scheduled to take place over four days, with the next session set for Thursday, 24 April (tomorrow). As the bill moves forward, it is expected to undergo further scrutiny and revisions before reaching a third reading in the House of Lords.
The outcome of this legislation could have significant implications for both renters and landlords, potentially setting a new course for the future of housing in the UK.
Key committee stage dates:
- Thursday 24 April 2025
- Monday 28 April 2025
- Tuesday 6 May 2025 (subject to change)
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