The Renters' Rights Bill is   a proposed piece of legislation aimed at reforming the private rented sector in England. It seeks to improve the situation for renters by giving them more security and stability, while also holding landlords accountable for property standards and tenancy management. Key changes include the abolition of Section 21 "no fault" evictions, a new tenancy regime, and measures to combat discrimination and exploitation in the sector. 

Here's a more detailed look at the bill's key provisions:

For Tenants:

• Increased Security:

  The bill aims to give tenants more security to stay in their homes by ending Section 21 "no fault" evictions, which allow landlords to evict tenants without cause. 

• New Tenancy Regime:

  The bill introduces a new tenancy regime where all tenancies will be periodic, meaning they will roll on month-to-month, rather than being fixed-term. 

• Improved Property Standards:

  The bill includes provisions to ensure landlords maintain properties to a minimum standard, with clear expectations for addressing serious hazards like damp and mold. 

• Protection from Discrimination:

  The bill prohibits landlords and agents from discriminating against prospective tenants in receipt of benefits or with children. 

• End to Rental Bidding:

  The bill makes it illegal for landlords and agents to ask for or accept bids above the advertised rent. 

• Lifetime Deposits:

  The government plans to introduce a single lifetime deposit system, reducing the burden on tenants when moving homes. 

• Increased Rent Repayment Orders:

  The bill will extend Rent Repayment Orders to all offences under the new legislation, doubling the maximum repayment from 12 months to 24 months' rent. 

For Landlords:

• New Tenancy Regime:

  Landlords will need to adapt to the new periodic tenancy system. 

• Higher Property Standards:

  Landlords will be required to maintain properties to a higher standard, including addressing serious hazards. 

• Increased Accountability:

  The bill includes measures to hold landlords accountable for breaches of tenancy agreements and property standards. 

• Private Rented Database:

  The bill proposes a database of all residential landlords and private rented accommodation, which will record any bans, financial penalties, or other relevant offences. 

Other Notable Provisions:

• "Awaab's Law":

  The bill will apply "Awaab's Law," which sets clear legal expectations about the timeframes within which landlords must make homes safe where they contain serious hazards. 

• 12-Month Protected Period:

  During the first 12 months of a new tenancy, landlords will generally not be allowed to move back into their property or sell it unless they sell to another landlord who will take over the tenancy. 

The Renters' Rights Bill is a complex piece of legislation with far-reaching implications for both tenants and landlords in England. The bill aims to address long-standing issues in the private rented sector and create a more equitable and secure system for all.