Purpose of the forums
Each forum is different and will change to suit the current environment. At each forum we will:
- provide updates on the latest legislation
- ask guest speakers to attend who will share information and advice
- discuss housing matters
April landlord forums
We held a number of forums in April ahead of the key reforms that will take effect as part of the Renters' Rights Act 2025, as well as other key developments affecting the private rented sector.
The Renters’ Rights Act is changing the laws around private renting, with the new rules applying on or after 1 May 2026. The forums covered the following changes:
- abolish section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
- ensure possession grounds are fair to both parties
- provide stronger protections against backdoor eviction
- introduce a new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman
- create a Private Rented Sector Database
- give tenants strengthened rights to request a pet in the property
- apply the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector
- apply ‘Awaab’s Law’ to the sector
- make it illegal for landlords and agents to discriminate against prospective tenants in receipt of benefits or with children
- end the practice of rental bidding by prohibiting landlords and agents from asking for or accepting offers above the advertised rent
- strengthen local authority enforcement
- strengthen rent repayment orders
Presentations were available so landlords could understand and prepare for the implementation of the Renters Rights Act legislation.