As an update to the news blog we issued on the above Legislation, we can now confirm that the bill is currently in the House of Lord’s - having passed through 2 readings, it is now about to enter committee stage.

But what does this mean?

Before Committee Stage Takes Place

The second reading of the bill in the House of Lords, which took place on the 4th February 2025, was the first opportunity for the House to debate the bill and gives members an opportunity to discuss and debate their thoughts and concerns. During this stage no amendments can be proposed, however before committee stage begins, amendments are gathered and placed in order.

Committee Stage

Committee stage generally lasts around 8 days, but can go on longer. During this time, each clause of the bill is scrutinised and has to be agreed. If amendments are proposed these have to be considered and voted on. This process has no time limit and can not be restricted by government. If the bill has agreed amendments, it is required to be reprinted with the amendments before moving to report stage.

Proposed Amendments to the Renters’ Rights Bill

Having reviewed the running list of proposed amendments (a 40 page document) it is fair to say that the House of Lords have raised some valid amendments to be discussed. To name a small selection;

• Allowing fixed term tenancies of up to 12 months or allowing tenants to propose a fixed term tenancy after 4 months of an initial agreement
• Rent increases to be linked to inflation
• Landlords of small portfolios (less than 5 let properties ) to be given the ability to use the Section 21 notice.
• Delaying the removal of the Section 21 until court reforms have been reviewed
• Student Lets to remain as fixed term tenancies
• A ‘pet insurance for rental properties’ requirement for tenants who request to have pets

Whilst amendments are not guaranteed to be agreed upon before reaching report stage, it is clear there is still a lot of work to be done in parliament before the bill can be passed as law. It is important that amendments are properly considered to ensure the private rental sector remains feasible for landlords and tenants going forward.

That said, the government are keen to move forward at pace with this legislation, with implementation dates being suggested as spring/summer 2025.

Further updates will be posted once we have more information.