Date Published 30 October 2025
Big news, Poole landlords! The Renters' Rights Bill has now officially become the Renters' Rights Act after receiving Royal Assent — which means the biggest shake-up in renting for over 30 years is officially here.
So, what does this mean for you, especially if you're one of our many self-managing landlords around BH15 and BH16?
Don't panic — grab a cuppa, because we've broken it all down in plain English (no legal jargon, promise).
What's changing under the Renters' Rights Act?
Here's a quick overview of what's coming your way:
🏠 Goodbye Section 21 'No-Fault' Evictions -
Landlords can no longer simply serve notice without a reason. From now on, you'll need an approved legal ground (such as rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, selling, or moving back in).
For many good landlords, this won't be a huge issue — but it's more important than ever to stay organised, document everything, and know your rights.
⏳ End of Fixed-Term Tenancies
- All tenancies will become rolling (periodic). That means there's no set end date — the tenancy just continues until either side gives notice.
This change is designed to give tenants stability, but it does mean landlords will have to adapt how they plan things — especially if you're managing your own lets.
💷 Rent Increases — Once a Year, and Fair
Rent can only be increased once per year, and it must reflect the current market rate. Tenants can even challenge unfair rent rises through a tribunal.
So, make sure your property is in great condition and well-presented — that's how you justify top market rent. (And if you need help setting the right rent for BH15 or BH16, you know where we are 😉.)
🐾 Pet-Friendly Rules -
Tenants can now request a pet, and landlords can't unreasonably refuse. You can still ask for pet insurance to cover any potential mishaps (a win-win, really).
In short, expect more wagging tails and fewer 'sorry, no pets' listings.
💻 New Landlord Database & Ombudsman -
All landlords will need to register on a national database, and there'll be a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman offering fair, binding resolutions for tenant complaints.
If you're doing it all yourself, make sure you're registered — because if you're not, you could lose your right to use certain possession grounds.
🚫 No More Rental Bidding Wars
- Landlords can no longer accept offers above the advertised rent. The asking rent is the ceiling, full stop.
This should make things fairer, but it also means your marketing and rent setting need to be spot on from the start. (We're experts at that bit, by the way.)
🧱 Property Standards & Awaab's Law -
The Decent Homes Standard now applies to the private rented sector. Homes must be safe, good quality, and free from hazards like damp or mould.
This isn't just a 'nice to have' anymore — it's law. Landlords must act quickly if a property becomes unsafe or unhealthy.
⚖️ Stronger Council Powers & Fines
- Local councils can now fine non-compliant landlords up to £7,000 for breaches — or up to £40,000 for serious or repeated offences.
So if you're a self-managing landlord in Poole, now's the time to double-check your paperwork and property condition.
When Will It All Come Into Force?
The Act has passed, but the government still needs to confirm when each part will start. Expect a phased rollout — so now's the perfect time to get ahead and make sure your rental business is ready.
What About Existing Tenancies?
Yes — the plan is for these new rules to apply to all tenancies, not just new ones. So, whether your tenants have been in place for six months or six years, the new rules will eventually cover everyone.
What This Means for Self-Managing Landlords in Poole -
In short — things are getting stricter.
There'll be more paperwork, more regulation, and more responsibility. But there's also opportunity: the good, organised landlords will stand out even more.
If you're self-managing, this might be the perfect time to get some professional backup.
At Lewis Dean Lettings, we help landlords:
Keep compliant with all new legislation (without the headache)
Set top market rents that attract quality tenants
. Find reliable long-term renters (who actually pay on time!)
Handle all the admin, inspections, and notices properly
. We've been doing this for over 30 years in Poole, Upton and the BH15/BH16 area — long before the phrase 'Renters' Rights Act' was even invented.
Want to Stay Ahead of the Changes?
If you're not sure where to start, let's have a quick chat. We can run a free review of your tenancy agreements and property standards to make sure you're ready for the new law.
📞 Call us today on 01202 621900 or pop us a message through www.lewisdean.co.uk
.
Let's make sure you're not just compliant — but confident, profitable, and proud of the rental homes you offer.
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