The UK’s Renters’ Reform Bill is edging closer to becoming law, with the Report Stage debates scheduled to begin in the House of Lords on 1st July 2025. This phase marks one of the final opportunities for peers to review, debate, and amend the proposed legislation before it moves toward Royal Assent.

Additional sessions are set for 7th and 15th July, but with Parliament’s summer recess beginning on 22nd July and lasting until 1st September, the likelihood of the Bill being finalised before the break is slim. As such, we anticipate that Royal Assent may be granted in early September, with implementation likely starting later in 2025 or early 2026.

What Is the Report Stage?

The Report Stage in the House of Lords is a critical step in the legislative process. It allows further scrutiny and revision of the Bill following the committee stage. At this point, peers can propose changes based on feedback from experts, stakeholders, and the wider public.

Key Issues Still Under Debate

Several aspects of the Renters’ Rights Bill remain contentious, particularly from the perspective of landlords and housing providers. Here’s a breakdown of some of the major concerns being raised during this final review:

Student Housing and Ground 4A

The student rental market is already under pressure, with an estimated 600,000 shortfall in available beds across the UK. While the Bill introduces Ground 4A for possession in student lets, this currently excludes one- and two-bedroom properties. There are calls to extend this ground to ensure all student landlords are protected and students retain access to essential accommodation options.

Rent Tribunal Overload

The Bill gives tenants enhanced powers to challenge rent increases, allowing them to appeal to a tribunal. While this aims to prevent unfair rent hikes, it could result in a surge of tribunal cases. Industry bodies are urging for a triage system to be introduced, which would assess the validity of cases before they reach the tribunal — saving time and reducing strain on the system.

 Rent Arrears Thresholds

Under the proposed legislation, tenants must accrue three months of arrears before a landlord can begin eviction proceedings. The notice period is also extended from two weeks to one month. In addition, arrears caused by delays in Universal Credit payments are excluded. Many landlords and housing providers are advocating for a return to the existing two-month threshold and two-week notice period, as well as the inclusion of all arrears regardless of their source.

Court Capacity and Possession Delays

With the elimination of Section 21 “no fault” evictions, landlords will need to rely entirely on court-approved possession grounds. However, Ministry of Justice figures show that current court wait times already average six months. Stakeholders are pushing for increased court funding, more resources, and a statutory review to assess the judiciary’s capacity to handle the expected rise in claims.

What’s Next?

The Bill’s next steps will depend heavily on the outcomes of the July debates. Final amendments will be considered, and if no major obstacles arise, we can expect it to become law in the autumn.

In the meantime, landlords and property professionals should begin preparing now. From compliance checks to updating tenancy agreements, being proactive will be essential.

How Dreytons Housing Can Help

At Dreytons Housing, we understand how significant these changes will be — especially for landlords managing multiple properties or vulnerable tenants. Our Guaranteed Rent Scheme, property compliance services, and expert team can help landlords navigate the transition with confidence.

We stay ahead of legislation so you don’t have to. Let us manage the complexities — while you enjoy stable income and peace of mind.