Over the past week, we’ve broken down every major part of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (RRA) — from tenancy changes and possession rules to property standards and compliance obligations.
In this final instalment of our five-part series, we turn to action. The RRA may not yet be fully in force, but landlords who start preparing now will be in the best possible position when the new system goes live.
Here’s your 90-day readiness plan — practical, achievable steps to ensure you’re compliant, organised, and ready for the next era of renting.
Step 1: Review and Update Your Tenancy Agreements (Weeks 1–2)
Your tenancy paperwork must reflect the new legal structure. Fixed-term Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) are being replaced by Assured Periodic Tenancies (APTs) — rolling agreements that continue indefinitely.
What to Do
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Remove fixed terms and any references to Section 21 “no-fault” evictions.
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Include guidance on rent increases using the Section 13 process (once per year, with two months’ notice).
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Add clarity about how tenants can give notice (two months).
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Review deposit and compliance clauses to ensure they meet the new standards.
This is also a good time to simplify your tenancy templates. Clear, up-to-date agreements reduce disputes and future tribunal risks.
Step 2: Prepare for Evidence-Based Possession (Weeks 3–4)
With the removal of Section 21, landlords will need to prove legal grounds for regaining possession. That means evidence and record keeping will become critical.
Your New Essentials
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Maintain a digital rent ledger and payment record for each tenant.
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Keep inspection reports, repair logs, and communications history.
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Create a case file template for possession proceedings, with tabs for each relevant ground (e.g. arrears, property sale, anti-social behaviour).
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Ensure all notices and letters match the new Section 8 requirements and notice periods.
Landlords who can demonstrate transparency and compliance will find possession claims faster and less stressful.
Step 3: Prepare for the PRS Ombudsman (Weeks 5–6)
The Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will soon be mandatory. All landlords must join once registration opens.
Action Points
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Budget for membership fees (expected to be affordable per property).
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Create a written complaints procedure for tenants, outlining how issues are handled before escalation to the Ombudsman.
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Keep a central complaint log with dates, outcomes, and supporting documents.
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Train staff or agents to respond to tenant concerns promptly and professionally.
Joining early will help protect your reputation and reduce the risk of enforcement penalties (up to £40,000 for repeated non-compliance).
Step 4: Get Ready for the PRS Database (Weeks 7–8)
All landlords and properties will soon have to be registered on the new PRS Database — a central government record for private rentals.
What to Gather Now
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Landlord contact and identification details.
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Property addresses and descriptions.
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Proof of gas, electrical, and EPC compliance.
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Deposit scheme details.
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Any property licence numbers (HMO or selective).
Having these ready will make registration seamless when the portal goes live. Remember, some possession grounds will only be available to registered landlords, so non-registration could limit your legal rights.
Step 5: Audit Your Property Standards (Weeks 9–10)
The Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law are coming to the private rented sector — and while full enforcement may not happen until the 2030s, preparation starts now.
Conduct a Mini Audit
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Inspect each property for damp, mould, and disrepair.
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Test heating, ventilation, and insulation.
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Check safety certificates (gas, EICR, smoke, CO2).
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Log all issues and schedule remedial work.
Building these checks into your regular management routine will keep you compliant and reduce future repair costs.
Step 6: Update Advertising and Lettings Procedures (Weeks 11–12)
Compliance begins before the tenancy even starts. The RRA introduces strict rules on advertising, discrimination, and upfront rent.
Key Tasks
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Set one fixed asking rent — no bidding, no “offers over.”
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Remove all “No DSS” or “No children” language from marketing materials.
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Review your referencing process to ensure it’s fair and consistent.
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Enforce the one-month rent-in-advance limit for new tenants.
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Create a written pet policy to manage requests fairly and transparently.
This is also the ideal time to update your internal training manuals, agent instructions, and portal listings.
Step 7: Communicate with Tenants and Agents
Change creates uncertainty. Clear communication can prevent confusion, reduce disputes, and strengthen relationships.
Suggested Approach
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Write to current tenants explaining that existing tenancies will automatically convert to periodic agreements on the government’s commencement date.
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Reassure tenants about rent processes, repair response times, and complaint handling.
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Provide staff and agents with updated scripts for viewings and applications to ensure compliance with the new Act.
Transparency now builds confidence later.
Step 8: Stay Alert for Government Updates
While the Act is now law, implementation regulations are still being rolled out. Key announcements will cover:
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The official Commencement Date (expected in 2026).
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The launch of the PRS Database.
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The start date for Ombudsman registration.
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Detailed guidance for Awaab’s Law and property standards.
Follow updates from NetRent and official channels to stay ahead of each milestone.
Final Thoughts
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 marks a major shift — not just in how tenancies are structured, but in the culture of renting itself. The best landlords will adapt early: documenting properly, maintaining high standards, and embracing transparency.
Preparation now means protection later. The RRA is here to stay — and with a proactive plan, you’ll be ready to thrive under it.
Contact NetRent
Telephone: 01352 721300
Email: support@netrent.co.uk
Legal Disclaimer
NetRent does not provide legal advice. The content of this article represents our understanding of rental property law as of November 2025 and is intended for general informational purposes only. Landlords and tenants should seek independent legal or professional advice before taking action based on this material.