Rent Reform in Elstree and Borehamwood

The upcoming Rent Right Act 2025 is the biggest shake-up for landlords in years. It will affect how you manage tenancies, raise rent and regain possession.

1. Section 21 Abolished No-fault evictions are being removed The alternative to section 21 will be the section 8 grounds instead (rent arrears, sale, landlord moving in, ASB, etc) You will need good tenant records and strong paperwork, which is why using a managing agent such as L&H Residential is so useful.

2. Tenancies Become Periodic There will be no more fixed-term AST All tenancies will become rolling periodic agreements This will also make planning for refurbishments or selling a lot more complicated

3. Rent Increases – New Rules You will be allowed to raise the rent just once every 12 months When doing so, you must use the new Section 13 process (form 4A) Tenants will be able to challenge and rent increase at the tribunal It would be prudent to have evidence of local market rent. Another reason using L&H Residential would be beneficial, as they can provide it.

4. Changes to Rent Payments You can only collect one month’s rent at a time No more quarterly rent payments No rent can be collected before the tenancy agreement has been signed Likely need to review your current rent collection structures

5. New Tenant Protections You will no longer be able to blanket refuse tenants with children, on benefits or with pets The landlord must consider the request from tenants with pets There will be stronger repair rules with set maximum deadlines for rectification of issues. Higher expectations will be set for proactive property management, yet another reason to use L&H Residential

6. What Borehamwood Landlords Should Do Now Make sure you review tenancy agreements and check for outdated clauses Make sure you have all your rent statements, inspection notes and communication logs Plan a new Rent increase strategy, for example, you will need ready evidence and notice times. Make sure none of your advertising conflicts with the new rules imposed by the Rent Reform Make sure you tighten maintenance standards Obtain legal/lettings advice to update documents before the law begins. L&H Residential can assist with this.

7. Why It Matters in Borehamwood Borehamwood has strong rental demand Tenants will have more rights; therefore, compliance becomes even more crucial than ever before Being a well-organised landlord will make you stand out and reduce risk. With the help of a local agent such as L&H Residential, this can be obtained quite simply. In conclusion, with many changes to the laws and rules that you as a Landlord must obey to prevent fines or legal actions against you, using a Local estate agent to help keep you legally compliant with your rental property/s is more valuable than ever, as the agency can take the weight off your shoulders and also the time it would have taken you to keep fully up-to-date

L&H Residential can be reached on 0203 617 1333 or by email Enquiries@laminghope.com