The Renters’ Rights Bill – Labour’s long-awaited overhaul of the private rented sector – has hit a delay. Despite initial hopes of getting Royal Assent before the summer, it’s now confirmed that the legislation will not receive Royal Assent until September 2025.
That pushes everything back, including the abolition of Section 21.
Here’s what we know so far, what’s delayed, and what you can expect – with a full timeline below.
Where Are We Now?
The Bill completed its passage through the House of Lords on 21 July 2025. It’s now entering the “ping pong” stage – where the House of Commons and House of Lords debate and finalise the exact wording of the legislation. That starts on Monday, 8 September, after Parliament returns from summer recess.
If all goes smoothly, Royal Assent should follow before the conference recess, which begins on 16 September.
While the government originally hoped to have the new tenancy regime up and running by mid-2025, that’s now off the table. Ministers are now urging patience, citing the need for secondary legislation, guidance, and system preparation before implementation can begin.
What Will Happen After Royal Assent?
Even once the Bill becomes law, it won’t take effect straight away.
The government has explicitly committed to giving the sector sufficient notice before the new tenancy system comes into force. That includes time for:
- Drafting and passing secondary legislation
- Updating court forms and guidance
- Publishing the terms for written tenancy agreements
- Preparing landlords, letting agents, and tenants for the transition
Projected Timeline
Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
21 July 2025 | Bill completes House of Lords stage |
8 September 2025 | Commons begins “ping pong” stage |
Before 16 September 2025 | Likely date for Royal Assent |
Autumn 2025 | Drafting and consultation on secondary legislation |
Late 2025 / Early 2026 | Sector guidance published |
Spring– Summer 2026 | Expected implementation date (TBC by secondary legislation) |
What Should Landlords and Tenants Do Now?
While you don’t need to make immediate changes, it’s a good time to:- Familiarise yourself with the key provisions in the Bill
- Review your existing tenancy processes
- Prepare for updates to tenancy agreements, tenant communications, and compliance workflows
- Subscribe to updates from reliable sources to stay ahead of secondary legislation and guidance
