The Renters’ Rights Bill: What It Means for Landlords and Tenants in Witney and Swindon

The Government’s proposed Renters’ Rights Bill is set to reshape the private rental market across England. It aims to make renting fairer, safer and more secure for tenants while ensuring landlords meet modern standards.

At francis george solicitor-advocate, we are already working with landlords and tenants in Witney, Swindon and across Oxfordshire to prepare for these changes. Whether you own a single property or manage a larger portfolio, understanding what’s ahead will help you protect your position and remain compliant.

The Key Changes You Need to Know

The Renters’ Rights Bill is designed to simplify tenancies and strengthen renter protections. Some of the most significant proposed reforms include:

• Ending Section 21 “no fault” evictions, meaning landlords will no longer be able to end a tenancy without a valid reason.

• Moving to rolling tenancies, replacing fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies with open-ended periodic ones.

• Introducing limits on rent increases, restricting rent rises to once per year and allowing tenants to challenge increases at a Tribunal.

• Setting out fairer rules for pets, where tenants will have a legal right to request permission and landlords must consider requests reasonably.

• Expanding property standards and enforcement, giving councils greater powers to act where homes fall below required standards.

These reforms are expected to be introduced gradually from late 2025 once the Bill completes its passage through Parliament.

What This Means for Landlords

For landlords across Witney, Swindon and the surrounding areas, this Bill signals a new era of accountability and careful planning. The removal of Section 21 will mean that possession procedures must be handled lawfully and supported by evidence.

It’s wise to begin preparing now. Review your tenancy agreements and ensure they are compliant with existing and future legislation. Check how rent reviews and notice periods are managed, and make sure your properties meet all safety and maintenance standards. Communicating clearly with tenants about their rights and responsibilities will also help prevent disputes.

At francis george solicitor-advocate, we help landlords understand their legal position under the current framework and prepare for the changes ahead. We can review tenancy documentation, advise on compliant possession grounds and guide you through the transition once the new rules come into effect.

What Tenants Should Expect

For tenants in Witney, Swindon and the wider Oxfordshire region, the Renters’ Rights Bill offers greater protection and stability. You will have stronger security of tenure, clearer rules on rent increases and the ability to request a pet on reasonable grounds.

Tenants should continue to maintain good communication, keep written records and report maintenance issues promptly. Understanding your rights will help you stay informed and confident when the new law arrives.

If you have concerns about your tenancy or a dispute with your landlord, Francis George Solicitor-Advocate can provide practical, confidential advice to help you resolve matters effectively.

Local Insight in Witney and Swindon

In Witney and the surrounding villages, many homes are older or rural properties, and may need investment to meet higher housing standards. In Swindon, a fast-moving rental market means both landlords and tenants will benefit from clearer, more consistent legal processes.

Our teams in Witney and Swindon combine legal expertise with local insight. We understand how national policy changes affect landlords, tenants and letting agents in Oxfordshire and The Cotswolds, and we work to ensure our clients are ready before the new law takes effect.

How francis george solicitor-advocate Can Help

We have experience in landlord and tenant law, including possession proceedings, tenancy disputes, compliance reviews and document drafting.

If you are a landlord, we can review your tenancy portfolio, identify risk areas under the new legislation and update your documents to meet upcoming requirements. If you are a tenant, we can help you understand your rights and support you through negotiations or disputes.

To speak with one of our solicitors in Witney or Swindon, contact Francis George Solicitor-Advocate today. Early advice can save you time, stress and cost once the new law is in force.

For more information, visit our landlord and tenant services page.

References

Commons Library (2024) The Renters’ Rights Bill 2024: Research briefing CBP-10325. UK Parliament, London. Available at: https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-10325/ (Accessed 10 October 2025).

GOV.UK (2024) Guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill. Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, London. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act (Accessed 10 October 2025).

Knight Frank LLP (2024) The Renters’ Rights Bill Explained: What Does It Mean for Landlords and Tenants? Knight Frank Perspectives, London. Available at: https://www.knightfrank.co.uk/perspectives/article/2024/10/renters-rights-bill-explained-what-does-it-mean-for-landlords-and-tenants (Accessed 10 October 2025).

Shelter England (2024) What to Expect from the Renters’ Rights Act. Shelter Professional Resources, London. Available at: https://england.shelter.org.uk/professional_resources/news_and_updates/what_to_expect_ from_the_renters_rights_act (Accessed 10 October 2025).