LRG – formerly Leaders Romans Group – is demanding that the government produces a specific implementation plan for the multiple measures contained in the Renters Rights Bill.
The Bill is nearing Royal Assent, and is being celebrated at the current Labour Party conference as one of the key achievements – as the party sees it – of the government’s first year in office.
But Allison Thompson, national lettings managing director of LRG, says: “What the sector needs now is a clear and practical plan for implementation. The Bill marks a significant shift. It ends Section 21, moves all new and existing tenancies to periodic tenancies, tightens the grounds for possession, limits rent increases to once a year, and introduces both a PRS ombudsman and a national property portal.
“These are positive steps. However, success will ultimately depend on how the reforms are implemented. The transition must be carefully phased and underpinned by clear, usable guidance.
“First, the courts. Removing Section 21 before court systems are ready risks leaving serious cases waiting longer to be heard. The government needs to commit to clear targets for listing times, expand the use of housing-specific court lists, and ensure that digital filing genuinely speeds up the process.
“Second, the switch to periodic tenancies. The plan to move all assured shorthold tenancies over in one step creates a risk of confusion. We need fixed dates, standardised terms, and clear transitional rules, including confirmation that current rent-in-advance arrangements can continue.
“Third, the new ombudsman and property portal. These could drive real change, but only if they’re simple to use. We support a single national data standard and file format, enabling agents to bulk upload portfolios and integrate with existing licensing and enforcement systems. With the right systems in place, compliance becomes the default and renters benefit faster.”
Thompson says the introduction of the current Decent Homes Standard into the private rental sector also needs expert guidance and sympathetic timing from government.
She comments: “We support the introduction of a Decent Homes Standard in the private rented sector, but it has to be practical to follow and consistent to enforce. Too many landlords want to do the right thing but are left guessing what’s required.
“The focus should be on fixing the highest risks in older homes. That includes damp and mould, poor insulation and outdated facilities. The government should publish clear guidance on what work is needed, how it’s evidenced, and how long it should take.
“The PRS must not be left behind when it comes to time-bound repairs. But the rollout must be realistic. Align any new duties with the wider rental reform timeline, and give landlords enough time to plan, budget and complete works properly. That is the best way to improve housing quality without creating voids, confusion or unintentional non-compliance.”
