The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 continues to reshape the private rental sector — and one of the less talked-about (but very important) changes is the introduction of a mandatory written statement of terms. Under new section 16D of the Housing Act 1988, private landlords must provide tenants with a prescribed written statement containing specific information before a tenancy begins. At Anderson Knight, we’re advising landlords to prepare now — because this is not optional paperwork. It will be a legal requirement.
Read moreThe Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has issued draft regulations setting out exactly what must be included in the written statement. 1. Identity and Contact Information The full name(s) of the landlord(s) The full name(s) of all tenants An address in England or Wales where tenants can serve notices on the landlord The rented property address 2. Tenancy Start and Possession Terms The date on which the tenant is entitled to occupy the property The amount of rent and how often it’s due Any tenancy deposit amount (if applicable) 3. Rent and Payment Details Clear statement of rent payable and rent period A statement that future rent increases must follow Section 13 rules (i.e., formal notice must be served) Details of any other payments payable to the landlord (e.g., utilities or bills), whether included in rent or separate, and how amounts and due dates will be communicated if not fixed amounts yet known 4. Notice Periods The minimum notice period the tenant must give when ending the tenancy A statement explaining that generally the landlord can only recover possession through a court order, specifying that a prescribed notice must be served and that the ground relied on will affect the notice period 5. Statutory Duties and Safety The written statement must explain the landlord’s statutory obligations, including: Fitness for human habitation duties Repair and maintenance responsibilities Gas safety requirements and inspection obligations Electrical safety standards and inspection requirements 6. Other Key Tenant Rights The statement must also include: The tenant’s right to request disability-related adjustments, with a note that such requests should not be unreasonably refused The tenant’s right to request permission to keep a pet, with a duty on the landlord not to refuse unreasonably If relevant, a note that the tenancy is “supported accommodation” and why this classification applies For more information contact our team we are happy to help
Read moreThe rental market is entering a new phase, and the upcoming Renters’ Rights Act marks a significant turning point for both rental providers and renters. While change can feel unsettling, this legislation isn’t about making property investment unworkable — it’s about modernising how rental properties are managed and setting clearer expectations for everyone involved. A shift in how rentals are managed The biggest impact of the Renters’ Rights Act is not a single rule change, but a broader shift in approach. The focus moves toward transparency, accountability, and consistency in how tenancies are handled. This means: Clearer standards around property condition and maintenance More structured processes for notices and tenancy changes Stronger emphasis on documentation and compliance For rental providers, this elevates the importance of how a property is managed, not just the property itself. What’s different compared to now? Under the new framework, informal or reactive property management carries more risk. Decisions that may previously have been handled casually — such as rent adjustments, notices to vacate, or maintenance timelines — will now need to meet clearer legislative expectations. The days of “we’ve always done it this way” are ending. In their place is a more professional, regulated environment where good systems and expert guidance matter. What hasn’t changed Despite the headlines, the fundamentals of property investment remain the same. Rental properties can still: Deliver reliable income Grow in long-term value Be a stable part of a diversified portfolio What has changed is the level of care and strategy required to manage them effectively. This is manageable with the right support One of the biggest misconceptions around the Renters’ Rights Act is that it makes rental ownership unworkable. In reality, landlords who are informed, prepared, and well-supported are often better positioned than ever. A knowledgeable property manager plays a crucial role in: Navigating compliance confidently Reducing legal and financial risk Maintaining strong tenant relationships Protecting the long-term performance of your asset The key is not reacting out of fear, but planning with clarity. Looking ahead This is the first in a series designed to unpack the Renters’ Rights Act in practical, plain-English terms. Over the coming weeks, we’ll explore what the changes mean in real-world scenarios — and what rental providers should be doing now. Change is coming, but with the right advice and the right systems in place, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
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