Upcoming Changes Landlord Should Plan For.

Four months on from the big switch-on of the Renters' Rights Act, most landlords have adjusted to periodic tenancies, the end of section 21 and the new rent rules. But the Act is being introduced in phases, and more is on the way. Here's what's coming and how to get ahead of it.

A new landlord database

The next stage of the reforms is due from late 2026, although the government hasn't confirmed an exact date. A central part of it is a new private rented sector database.

Landlords will need to register themselves and their properties, and pay an annual fee. The amount hasn't been confirmed yet. The database will be opened up to landlords and local councils first, with public access following later.

The practical point: you'll need accurate, up-to-date records for every property. If your certificates, licences and tenancy paperwork are scattered across emails and filing cabinets, now is the time to pull them together.

A landlord ombudsman

The Act also creates a new ombudsman for private landlords, giving tenants a route to complain and seek redress without going to court. Membership will be mandatory and funded by landlords. However, landlords aren't expected to have to join until 2028, so there's time to prepare.

The best preparation is good practice now: responding to repairs promptly, keeping clear records of communication and handling complaints properly.

Higher property standards

Longer term, the government is introducing a Decent Homes Standard for the private rented sector, focused on improving housing quality. Because some properties will need significant work to meet it, the timeline is longer, with implementation currently planned for 2035 or 2037.

That may feel a long way off, but it's worth factoring into any refurbishment or purchase decisions you make today. Improvements made as part of planned works now are usually cheaper than rushed upgrades later.

Your planning checklist

• Gather all property documents in one place, ready for registration
• Budget for the annual database fee and future ombudsman membership
• Review how repairs and complaints are logged and responded to
• Note properties that may need work to meet higher standards
• Factor upcoming standards into any new purchases

Staying ahead with Donelan

The Renters' Rights Act has changed what it takes to be a landlord in England. The paperwork is heavier, the processes are stricter and the deadlines keep coming. That's exactly why more landlords are moving to fully managed lettings.

We keep track of every change so our landlords don't have to, and we'll be ready for registration and the ombudsman well before they arrive. If you'd like to talk about how we could manage your properties, get in touch with our team.

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