Pet deposit sparks debate
The House of Lords held another round of debate on the Renters' Rights Bill on 14th October, with one of the most discussed topics being the proposal to increase pet deposits. This would allow landlords to charge between one and three weeks’ additional rent. Although the opposition supported the change, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage reaffirmed Labour’s position that the current deposit limits set under the Tenant Fees Act 2019 are sufficient to cover potential pet damage, cleaning, gardening and other dilapidations.
Health and safety reforms
Another major development is Awaab’s Law, which will come into effect for social housing landlords in England on 27th October 2025. The law sets strict, enforceable deadlines for addressing damp, mould and other urgent health and safety hazards. The private rented sector will follow shortly, with the law set to be incorporated into the forthcoming Renters Rights Act. It is named in memory of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old who tragically died in 2020 after prolonged exposure to mould in his social housing flat. His case has prompted landmark reform in housing standards across the country.
Renters’ Rights Bill receives Royal Assent
Debates on the Renters’ Rights Bill concluded on 22nd October 2025 and it received Royal Assent from the King on 27th October 2025. The changes represent the first major amendments to private rented legislation since the Housing Act 1988, and the Bill has now passed through Parliament and become law. The Housing Secretary, Steve Reed, said during a BBC interview that he would publish a timetable for when the changes will take effect as soon as possible, so that agents, landlords and tenants can understand when the Act will come into full force.
At Ashtons, we will be monitoring these changes closely to ensure our landlords are fully prepared. For DIY landlords without the right support, potential fines of up to £40,000 for multiple breaches can be avoided with professional guidance. By partnering with our knowledgeable and experienced team, landlords can gain the confidence and certainty needed to navigate these evolving legal requirements.
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