Agents’ body Propertymark has issued a statement debunking a series of what it calls “myths and misconceptions” about the Renters Rights Bill.

The statement says: “The Renters Rights Bill represents a significant overhaul of the way that the private rented sector functions. Following its introduction to parliament on September 11 2024, myths and misconceptions have begun circulating throughout the property sector and amongst consumers about what the proposed legislation means in practice. With so many seeking clarity, Propertymark is here to provide confidence about what is going to change and what will remain the same.”

Myth 1 – landlords cannot stop tenants from keeping pets

Propertymark says: “Whilst the Bill aims to make it easier for tenants to keep pets, there are several caveats. While tenants will get the right to request a pet, landlords will be able to stipulate that tenants have insurance in place to cover potential damages to their property. The Bill doesn’t try to pin down all of the possible reasons a landlord could reasonably refuse permission for a pet, so plenty of discretion remains.  A superior landlord can prohibit pets, in which case the tenant can take the matter to the private rented sector ombudsman to receive a final decision.”

Myth 2 – so-called no fault evictions have already been made illegal

Propertymark says: “The UK Government has been categoric; the Bill will remove Section 21, ‘no-fault’ evictions. The latest comments from Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook, MP, suggest that the ban could be in place by the summer of 2025. The Bill also outlines a strengthening of Section 8, which will allow landlords to recover a property if they have a legal reason for doing so. Like a Section 21 notice, landlords would need to serve notice to the tenants on the prescribed form with the required notice period. If a tenant doesn’t leave, landlords must go to court and provide evidence.’

Myth 3 – the Bill will stop rent increases

Propertymark says: “Rent increases often reflect broader economic conditions, such as rising mortgage interest rates and other associated costs. The Renters’ Rights Bill does not remove the possibility of rent increases; it aims to ensure they are fair and justified. The key takeaway is that landlords can increase rents once per year to match the market rate, and tenants have the right to challenge this rent increase at the First-tier Tribunal, which will determine if this is the correct amount or should be lowered. Most landlords do not raise rent more than once a year already, so this should not represent a drastic change.”  

Myth 4 – letting agents don’t do anything about damp and mould issues

Propertymark says: “Responsible agents already maintain and inspect homes regularly. Issues of damp and mould are often resolved with appropriate heating and ventilation, and by co-operation between agents, landlords and tenants. Through a Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law the Bill will reinforce the existing good practice already in place for the majority of agents and crack down on the small minority of rogue operators.”

Myth 5 – discrimination by letting agents is widespread

Propertymark says: “Landlords have the final say over who rents their property, and this won’t change if the Bill becomes law, making it illegal to base eligibility checks on anything other than affordability. It’s already the case that no responsible agent should be operating any blanket ban against certain groups. Reputable agents already follow inclusive practices and work with their clients to ensure property and tenancy arrangements are suitable for both tenants and landlords.”