The White Paper focuses on various aspects of the Rental Law, but there are 3 areas that seem to have generated the most ‘controversy’. The first of these changes is Periodic Tenancies becoming becoming the new rental standard. This move will see any tenancy be periodic and Assured Shorthold Tenancies become no more. Tenants will be required to give two months notice if they wish the end their tenancy in what is designed to retain flexibility offered by private renting in additional to greater security.

The second change will see Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions abolished. Currently notice can be served without proven reason. Landlords will now need to prove that tenants have breached the terms of the tenancy of have a specific reason for serving notice, such as needing to sell, or a family member moving in.

The third change which seems to have the most people talking will be tenants having more rights to keep pets in their home. The new law will mean that Landlords can no longer unreasonably  withhold consent if a tenant requests to have a pet. Landlords will have a specific timeframe to respond Tenants will be able to challenge a decision.

As there will be many consequences facing Landlords for failing to comply with changing Regulations, it is likely that we will see many landlords ‘self managing’, suddenly decide to engage the services of a Letting agent to manage their rental property. Now that the Reform bill has entered Parliament, there is sure to be tweaks along the way before official announcements follow. Watch this space.