Introduction
On 27 October 2025, the UK Government’s landmark Renters’ Rights Act received Royal Assent.
While much of the media discussion has focused on tenants, the changes also have major implications for landlords, and many are positive, especially for those with modern, high-quality rental stock.
At Portico, where our portfolio is focused entirely on new build apartments, we see this legislation as an opportunity rather than a setback. The Act rewards professionalism, good property condition and strong tenant relationships, all areas where new build landlords have a natural advantage.
What the Act Changes – Key Points for Landlords
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces sweeping reforms to the private rented sector, including:
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The abolition of “no-fault” evictions under Section 21 and a move to periodic tenancies.
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Stronger, clearly defined grounds for possession under Section 8 (for sale, moving in, arrears, breaches, etc.).
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The Decent Homes Standard extended to the private rented sector — meaning rented homes must meet minimum safety, condition and repair standards.
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New timeframes for repairing serious hazards (via Awaab’s Law).
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The creation of a Private Rented Sector Ombudsman and a PRS property database for improved transparency.
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Restrictions on rent bidding and excessive increases, with tenants able to challenge unreasonable rises.
Why These Reforms Can Work in Landlords’ Favour
At first glance, the Act might seem like added regulation, but for well-maintained, professionally managed properties, it actually plays to your strengths.
1. New Build Apartments Already Meet the Standard
One of the biggest challenges for older rental stock is meeting the Decent Homes Standard, addressing damp, energy efficiency, and safety hazards.
New build apartments, like those offered through Portico, are already built to modern standards, with high EPC ratings, integrated safety systems and professional management structures.
This means landlords face fewer compliance risks, lower maintenance costs, and minimal disruption under the new rules.
2. Easier Property Management and Tenant Satisfaction
Because new builds typically come with warranty coverage and modern fixtures, repair issues are rare and quick to resolve. That directly supports the new Awaab’s Law requirements for timely repairs and helps maintain positive tenant relationships, something the Act strongly incentivises.
3. Stable, Long-Term Tenancies Fit the New Model
The shift to rolling periodic tenancies aligns well with the reality of new build living: modern apartments attract tenants looking for stability and longer stays.
That means fewer voids, consistent income and stronger tenant retention, which in turn improves overall returns.
4. Stronger Legal Clarity for Repossession
While Section 21 “no-fault” evictions are ending, landlords now have clear, enforceable grounds for possession, such as selling the property or moving back in.
For landlords following proper processes, this clarity can make property management more predictable and less open to dispute.
5. Market Reputation and Investor Appeal
As the private rented sector becomes more regulated, new build portfolios will stand out as compliant, low-risk assets.
For investors, that means stronger tenant demand, easier management, and a higher long-term asset value, particularly as sub-standard housing gradually leaves the market.
Practical Steps for Landlords
To make the most of the new landscape:
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Stay ahead of compliance, audit your portfolio and confirm all building and safety certificates are current (which is easier for new build schemes).
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Review tenancy agreements to align with the new periodic tenancy format.
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Keep transparent communication with tenants, regular updates and quick issue resolution help you maintain the “premium landlord” profile the Act encourages.
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Use quality to justify returns, with a high-spec new build property, you can attract longer-term tenants and sustain market-level rent growth.
Final Thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Act represents one of the biggest changes in decades for the UK rental market. But for landlords offering new build apartments, the transition is far smoother, your properties already meet the new expectations for safety, energy efficiency and quality.
In short, the Act levels the playing field, and professional landlords with modern, well-managed homes stand to benefit most.
By focusing on compliance, service and tenant retention, you’re building a future-proof investment portfolio in a sector that’s becoming more trusted, transparent and stable.
In summary, while the long-anticipated Renters’ Rights Bill will bring changes for some, and important protections for many vulnerable tenants, those who invest in good quality housing and a fair, well managed service should find the new rules relatively easy to embrace.
At Portico, we continue to select only high-quality, new build developments that align with this new era of renting, helping landlords stay ahead while generating consistent, sustainable returns.