The Renters’ Rights Bill outlines changes to ‘better protect’ tenants, leaving landlords with a long to-do list to meet new requirements. Here, we outline how property standards will change and what landlords need to know.
The Renters’ Rights Bill 2025 introduces two major reforms that will reshape the private rental sector: the revised Decent Homes Standard and the introduction of Awaab’s Law. These changes aim to raise housing standards, outline new requirements for living conditions, and help landlords support their tenants.
For landlords preparing for the Renters’ Rights Bill, understanding the new standards is essential.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
- What the Decent Homes Standard includes
- How Awaab’s Law Protects Tenants
- Why These Changes Matter
- What Landlords Need to Do Now
- What This Means for Renters
What is the Decent Homes Standard?
The Decent Homes Standard, which was originally introduced for the social housing sector, will be extended to private rental properties. The Standard sets the requirements for property conditions, meaning landlords must ensure their properties are:
- Free from health and safety hazards, such as mould, faulty electrics, and damp
- Kept to a high standard, with modern functional kitchens and bathrooms
- Warm and energy efficient
- In a reasonable state of repair
By extending the Standard to private landlords, the Bill intends to ensure tenants have access to good quality housing. We know that our clients ensure their properties are kept to the highest quality and treat their property investments as a business, but this will help to professionalise the sector.
Awaab’s Law: A response to tragedy
Awaab’s Law is named after Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old who tragically died after prolonged exposure to mould in his local authority-provided home. Despite his family’s repeated complaints about the property’s condition, these were ignored and have highlighted the urgent need for reform.
The Renters’ Rights Bill will extend this law to the private rental sector. Many landlords view this as a good change for the sector, as it will prevent tragic events like this from happening again. The law will mean:
- Landlords must respond to complaints within strict timeframes. Emergency hazards (such as severe mould and damp) must be repaired within 24 hours of being reported. This reduces to 7 days for non-emergency mould and damp issues, then 14 for significant risks
- Failure to comply could result in hefty fines or even legal action
Why these changes matter for landlords
These reforms offer landlords greater clarity around property standards. With the Decent Homes Standard and responding within the timeframes set out in Awaab’s Law, landlords can:
- Build stronger, more trusting relationships with tenants
- Reduce long-term repair costs by addressing issues early
- Avoid legal disputes and potential penalties
- Improve tenant retention and satisfaction
Ultimately, these changes create a fairer, more transparent rental market where landlords are supported in maintaining high-quality homes and tenants feel safe and secure.
What landlords need to do now
If you’re a landlord, it’s time to review your property portfolio. Here’s how to prepare:
- Inspect your properties for any hazards and ensure they are equipped with modern facilities in kitchens and bathrooms
- Respond quickly to tenant complaints and necessary repairs
- Keep records of maintenance and communication
- Upgrade insulation and heating where needed to meet energy efficiency standards
These steps will help you stay compliant, improve your relationship with your tenants, and prevent void periods.
Final thoughts for landlords
While this may create more work for landlords, overall, it is a positive change for the property market. As mentioned, both the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s law will improve professionalism in the sector and keep tenants safe.
The increase in property standards could mean you may need to raise finance to fund property works or repairs. Our brokers can review your property portfolio and find ways to help you finance any property improvements, whether that’s with bridging finance or a simple remortgage.
Next Steps
You can access a Property Portfolio Review here to see where you could raise finance and keep your mortgage costs down.
Alternatively, speak to our experts to see what property finance options you could access. Submit an enquiry here or call us on 0345 345 6788.
