A New Era for the Private Rental Sector

The UK’s private rental sector is undergoing its most significant overhaul in decades, and landlords in Worthing are not exempt. The Renters Reform Bill, first proposed in 2022 and set to come into force in stages from 2025, aims to rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants by strengthening tenants’ rights while improving standards across the board.

While some landlords see these changes as a challenge, others are using them as a chance to modernise their rental practices, build long-term tenant relationships, and future-proof their portfolios. If you're a landlord in Worthing – whether you rent out a single seaside flat or manage a portfolio of properties across West Sussex – now is the time to prepare.

This blog breaks down the key elements of the Renters Reform Bill, what they mean for landlords in Worthing, and how to stay ahead of compliance.

Key Changes Introduced by the Renters Reform Bill

1. Abolition of Section 21 “No-Fault” Evictions

Perhaps the most talked-about reform is the removal of Section 21, which currently allows landlords to evict tenants without giving a reason, provided proper notice is given.

What it means for Worthing landlords:
You will no longer be able to ask tenants to leave simply because you wish to sell or regain possession. Instead, you'll need to use a revised Section 8, which will include new grounds such as:

• Intention to sell the property

• Landlord or close family member wishing to move in

• Serious breach of tenancy

✅ Action Step: Review your current tenancy agreements and consider how your business model may need to adapt. Ensure all reasons for possession will be covered under the new legal framework.

2. Move to Periodic Tenancies

All tenancies will become periodic by default, meaning they roll on a monthly basis and cannot be fixed-term.

Why this matters in Worthing:
In a town with a mix of short-term lets, student accommodation, and long-term renters, this could reduce flexibility for landlords looking for fixed rental income over a specific period.

✅ Action Step: Plan for tenant turnover and void periods. You may need to build more flexibility into your financial forecasting.

3. New Grounds for Eviction and Faster Court Processes

While landlords may lose Section 21, the government has promised a strengthened Section 8 process, with expanded grounds and promises of faster eviction for anti-social behaviour or rent arrears.

For Worthing landlords:
You’ll need to gather better documentation and evidence to support any claims. Informal complaints or verbal agreements won’t be enough.

✅ Action Step: Start maintaining more rigorous records of tenant behaviour, rent payments, and communications.

4. A New Property Portal for Landlords

All landlords will be required to register their properties on a central digital portal, designed to improve transparency and enforcement.

In Worthing, this could lead to:
Greater scrutiny of non-compliant properties and landlords. Expect more frequent inspections and tenant awareness of their rights.

✅ Action Step: Ensure your properties meet minimum standards – from EPC ratings to gas safety checks – and keep digital records ready for upload.

5. Introduction of an Ombudsman for Tenants

Tenants will be able to escalate complaints to a new national ombudsman, even if they rent from a private landlord not using a letting agent.

Impact for local landlords:
You may face greater accountability and formal complaints – especially if issues aren’t resolved quickly and professionally.

✅ Action Step: Strengthen your tenant communication systems. Aim to resolve issues swiftly and fairly to avoid escalation.

 

6. Pets by Default

Landlords will not be able to unreasonably refuse tenants the right to keep a pet, as long as they request permission in writing and agree to cover pet-related damage via insurance.

Worthing’s context:
With its seaside walks and pet-friendly cafés, this could boost demand among pet-owning tenants – but may also mean more wear and tear.

✅ Action Step: Consider adjusting your tenancy agreements and deposits to accommodate pet-related clauses. Factor in pet-friendly flooring and cleaning costs.

Conclusion: Turning Compliance into Opportunity

While the Renters Reform Bill represents a major shift, it's not all doom and gloom for Worthing landlords. Many of these reforms aim to professionalise the industry – which can enhance your reputation, reduce tenant turnover, and improve rental returns in the long run.

Whether you manage your properties directly or use a letting service like Pass the Keys, now is the time to:

• Audit your current tenancy agreements

• Bring properties up to standard

• Improve documentation and communication

• Seek legal or lettings advice on long-term strategy

Worthing’s popularity as a commuter town and coastal destination makes it a strong rental market – but only for those landlords who stay ahead of change. By understanding the Renters Reform Bill today, you’ll be in a stronger position to thrive tomorrow.