The Labour Government’s Renters’ Rights Bill has just passed in Parliament and is a historic and transformative step for tenants, giving them stronger protections and greater security:

• No-fault evictions ended: Landlords must provide a valid reason to regain possession of a property.
• Periodic tenancies: All assured tenancies become open-ended, and no longer fixed-term, for greater stability.
• Rent increases: Landlords can raise rent only once a year, and tenants can challenge excessive increases at a Tribunal.
• Pets: Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse tenants’ pets.
• Decent Homes: All private rented homes must meet minimum safety and quality standards.
• Fair renting: Discrimination based on benefits or family status is banned.
• Bidding wars: Rental bidding is prohibited.

These changes will give tenants the confidence and security to approach the Council for help without fear of reprisals from their landlord, ensuring renters can access support when needed.

Here in Westminster — home to the largest private rented sector in the UK — the Labour-run Council has already taken action to protect renters and support responsible landlords:

• Private Renters’ Charter: Launched earlier this year, giving renters clear guidance on their rights and how to challenge unfair practices.
• Selective Licensing Scheme: Rolling out across most of the City in November, requiring landlords to hold a licence and meet minimum enforceable standards – allowing the Council to support responsible landlords while also protecting tenants.
• Private Renters’ Forum: A dedicated forum for renters to raise concerns, share experiences, and shape the Council’s strategy for renters. The next forum meeting will take place on 10th November in Bayswater and you can sign up here.
• Proactive enforcement: Inspectors routinely check properties for hazards such as damp, mould, and gas or fire risks, taking swift action when homes are unsafe.
• Supporting renters: The Council continues to provides advice, guidance, and practical support so tenants can ensure safe and secure housing conditions.

The Renters’ Rights Bill is a welcome step which strengthens what Westminster Labour has already been doing locally — giving tenants robust legal protections on top of local and practical support.

Westminster Labour is proud to stand up for renters — delivering safe, secure, and fair housing for everyone in our City.

Councillor Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters at Westminster City Council says:

“Reform of the sector has been long overdue. The Government’s changes will give renters much greater security and stability so they can stay in their homes for longer, build lives in their communities, and avoid the risk of homelessness. This is crucial for us in Westminster as we’ve seen a dramatic increase in homelessness and soaring demand for emergency temporary accommodation. Moreover, as a private renter myself, I have personally grappled with instability and poor housing conditions, while paying increasingly higher prices. Therefore, I am beyond delighted to see the changes brought forth in the Renter’s Rights Act. “