David Hawkins, Head of Real Estate London at Norton Rose Fulbright, has commented on the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force on 1st May.
“The Renters’ Rights Act represents a significant shift in the private rented sector, and student accommodation is one of the areas where the practical implications are most complex. While the government has sought to limit disruption by exempting purpose‑built student accommodation operating under approved codes, PBSA owners and operators need to ensure that they comply with the requirements of these codes and also the relevant transitional provisions relating to existing tenancies.
“Notwithstanding this, significant numbers of smaller properties let to students that fall outside the new student possession exemptions will still move onto rolling tenancies, which could create real challenges for landlords trying to align possession with the academic year.
“The implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act marks a fundamental rebalancing of rights and responsibilities in the private rented sector, strengthening tenant protections while placing significant new obligations and constraints on landlords.
“The shift to open‑ended tenancies and the removal of fixed terms will change how landlords manage risk, plan investment and recover possession, particularly in sectors where timing and certainty have traditionally been important.
“As the Act comes into force, the detail will matter just as much as the headline reforms. Landlords, tenants and investors will be watching closely to see how the reforms, including the proposed changes to rent review mechanisms, ultimately work out in the long term.”
