The government’s overhaul of the private rented sector is now well underway. As part of the proposed Renters’ Rights Act, Section 21 “no fault” evictions will be scrapped and landlords in Walton Vale and across England are preparing for major changes to the way tenancies are managed.
For buy-to-let landlords and investors in Walton Vale, these reforms present both challenges and opportunities. With the right knowledge, processes and support in place, it is entirely possible to adapt with confidence.
At Whitegates Walton Vale, we’ve been closely tracking the Renters’ Rights Act to ensure our landlords remain protected, informed and profitable. In this guide, we’ll explain what the new law means, how it impacts local landlords and what you can do now to prepare.
What is the Renters’ Rights Act?
The Renters’ Rights Act forms part of the UK Government’s wider Renters’ Reform Bill, which aims to create a fairer and more secure rental market for tenants, while ensuring responsible landlords can continue to operate successfully.
Key proposals include:
- Abolishing Section 21 “no fault” evictions
- Making all tenancies periodic by default
- Streamlining the legal eviction process through amended Section 8 grounds
- Creating a new Property Ombudsman for dispute resolution
- Introducing a Decent Homes Standard to the private sector
- Giving tenants the legal right to request a pet
The Bill is expected to come into force in 2025, giving landlords time to prepare.
What does this mean for landlords in Walton Vale?
In short, landlords will need a more structured, evidence-based approach to managing their rental properties. The ability to simply end a tenancy without explanation will no longer be an option.
Tenants in Walton Vale will gain more security and more power to challenge poor property conditions or unfair practices. Landlords will need to demonstrate valid grounds to regain possession, improve communication with tenants and maintain thorough documentation.
Unsure if your property or tenancy is compliant? Book a free landlord check-up with Whitegates Walton Vale.
The end of Section 21: what changes?
Previously, Section 21 allowed landlords to serve two months’ notice to end an assured shorthold tenancy without having to provide a reason. This gave landlords flexibility but was criticised for leaving tenants vulnerable.
Under the new Act:
- Section 21 will be abolished
- Landlords must use Section 8 with legal grounds to end a tenancy
- Tenancies will no longer have fixed terms, instead becoming periodic
This means you must be able to demonstrate legitimate reasons for ending a tenancy and ensure the notice process is fully compliant.
Legal eviction options under Section 8
Section 8 remains available to landlords but will be updated. Grounds for eviction include:
- Serious or persistent rent arrears
- Breach of tenancy (e.g. damage, antisocial behaviour)
- Selling the property
- Landlord or close family member moving in
These will be strengthened to provide more confidence to landlords, especially for reasons such as selling or repeated missed payments.
However, a clear paper trail will be crucial, and the notice periods and court processes will require careful handling.
Walton Vale’s rental market: still a strong investment
Despite legal reforms, Walton Vale continues to show strength as a buy-to-let location.
According to Rightmove’s House Price Index (Q3 2024):
- Rents in the wider L9 postcode have risen by 6.5% over the past year
- Tenant demand remains high, particularly for 2-3 bed family homes
- Properties with energy-efficient upgrades are letting faster
Zoopla’s Rental Market Report (Autumn 2024) also highlights that tenants are staying longer, with average tenancy lengths exceeding 20 months.
This shift to long-term tenancies aligns with the goals of the Renters’ Rights Act and creates an opportunity for landlords to enjoy more stable, predictable income.
Preparing your property and processes
To stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes, Walton Vale landlords should begin reviewing their current letting procedures now.
Here’s what we recommend:
1. Update tenancy agreements
Ensure contracts reflect periodic tenancies and include robust clauses for rent review, inspections, pets and breach procedures.
2. Keep meticulous records
Maintain a digital log of rent payments, maintenance requests, inspections and all tenant communication. This becomes vital in any legal dispute.
3. Carry out regular inspections
Inspections every 6 months, with dated photos and reports, help track property condition and reinforce professional standards.
4. Know your eviction rights
Familiarise yourself with updated Section 8 grounds and seek legal support when required. Notices must be served correctly.
5. Work with a professional agent
A qualified lettings team will ensure your tenancy paperwork, compliance and property management are up to date.
Thinking about outsourcing to protect your portfolio? Discover full property management with Whitegates Walton Vale.
Opportunities for landlords who embrace the changes
While some landlords fear more regulation, there are clear advantages to adapting early:
- Stronger tenant relationships: Good tenants will appreciate professionalism and stay longer
- Better income stability: Periodic tenancies reduce costly voids
- Higher demand for quality homes: Homes with EPC C ratings, modern kitchens and pet-friendly features rent faster
By investing in property condition and documentation, landlords are better positioned to manage risk and maximise returns.
How Whitegates Walton Vale supports landlords
We understand the local market and the legislation behind it. Whether you’re a new landlord or managing a portfolio, we offer:
- Fully compliant tenancy setup and renewals
- Expert advice on the Renters’ Rights Act and Section 8
- Hands-on property management and tenant communication
- Rent collection and arrears support
- Inspections, repairs and legal documentation
Our Walton Vale team is here to help you stay ahead of the curve and protect your long-term returns.
Book a free rental valuation or landlord consultation today.
Final thoughts: Change is coming, but success is still within reach
The Renters’ Rights Act marks a major shift in how the rental sector operates, but it needn’t be a reason to exit the market. With the right systems and support, landlords in Walton Vale can continue to thrive.
Section 21 may be gone, but fair, well-documented grounds for possession remain available. Tenants are staying longer, the market is stable, and professionally managed homes are more in demand than ever.
Now is the time to plan, prepare and partner with a lettings team that knows the local rules and your goals.
