Renters' Rights Glossary

A rolling tenancy with no fixed end date. Tenants can leave with two months’ notice; landlords must provide a valid reason to end the tenancy.

The most common tenancy type in England, typically with a fixed term. Replaced by periodic tenancies under the new Renters' Rights Bill.

Named after a tragic case, this provision mandates swift action on health hazards like mould and damp in rental homes.

The date when the new law takes effect. All tenancies (new and existing) will convert to periodic tenancies on this date.

A minimum quality benchmark for rental properties, covering safety, repair, and living conditions. Local councils will enforce compliance.

Landlords cannot refuse tenants based on having children or receiving benefits.

Legal reasons a landlord can use to reclaim their property. These have been clarified and expanded under the new Bill.

A mandatory registry for landlords to ensure compliance and transparency. Tenants can use it to verify landlord credentials and property standards.

A new, independent body to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants without going to court.

Rent increases are limited to once per year and must be justified. Landlords must use a Section 13 notice, and tenants can challenge increases via a tribunal.

Landlords and agents cannot request or accept more than one month’s rent upfront. This aims to reduce financial barriers for tenants.

Landlords and agents are prohibited from encouraging or accepting offers above the advertised rent (i.e., no bidding wars).

Tenants can request to keep pets, and landlords must not unreasonably refuse. They may require pet insurance to cover potential damage.

A legal provision allowing landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason. Abolished under the new Bill to enhance tenant security.

A formal notice used by landlords to seek possession of a property for specific legal reasons (e.g., rent arrears, property damage). This becomes the primary eviction route post-Section 21 abolition.