Renters Reform Bill 2024: Why Landlords Are Considering Short Let Alternatives

As the Renters (Reform) Bill edges closer to becoming law, landlords across the UK are facing a monumental shift in the private rental landscape. Designed to provide greater security and rights for tenants, the proposed reforms have sparked concern among independent landlords, particularly those letting through platforms like OpenRent or traditional long-term tenancy agreements.

With uncertainty rising, many are asking: Is it time to consider short let as an alternative?

What Is the Renters Reform Bill?

The Renters Reform Bill is part of the government’s plan to “reset the balance between landlords and tenants” in the private rental sector. Initially introduced in 2023 and now progressing through Parliament in 2024, it includes significant changes to how long-term rentals operate in England.

Key Proposed Changes:

• Abolition of Section 21 (no-fault evictions)
  Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without a specific reason.
  
  
• New grounds for eviction under Section 8
  Including stricter notice periods and a heavier burden of proof for landlords.
  
  
• Indefinite tenancies by default
  Fixed-term tenancies will be replaced by rolling periodic tenancies.
  
  
• Mandatory property ombudsman registration
  All landlords must join an independent redress scheme.
  
  
• Greater enforcement powers for local councils
  Meaning heavier fines and stricter oversight for non-compliance.
  
  

How Will This Affect Independent Landlords?

Independent landlords — especially those letting through platforms like OpenRent — will bear the brunt of these changes. Many rely on flexibility, fast turnarounds, and the ability to reclaim possession of their properties quickly if circumstances change.

The new rules may result in:

• Longer tenant stays, with limited ability to regain control of the property
  
  
• More legal complexity when dealing with disputes or evictions
  
  
• Lower profitability, particularly if rents are capped or void periods increase
  
  
• Increased administrative burden, particularly for landlords with small portfolios
  
  

Why Short Letting Offers a Smarter Alternative

As long lets become more rigid, short let property management is emerging as a flexible, income-generating solution — particularly in urban and tourist-heavy areas.

Benefits of Short Letting:

Total Flexibility
You can block dates for personal use, sell, or change strategies without being tied to long-term tenancies.

Higher Potential Income
Short let properties typically earn more per night than traditional long-term rentals — especially in high-demand locations.

Professional Management Available
With services like Pass the Keys, landlords can enjoy hands-free letting without sacrificing control or transparency.

Short Notice Exit Strategy
You’re not locked into multi-year tenancy contracts, giving you more freedom as your circumstances evolve.

Perfect for Airbnb, Booking.com and other platforms
Tap into global demand from tourists, business travellers, and remote workers.

How the Renters Reform Impacts OpenRent Landlords

OpenRent has long been popular with DIY landlords for its low costs and high visibility. But under the new reforms, OpenRent users must now grapple with:

• More stringent legal compliance requirements
  
  
• A need for ongoing tenant communication and redress
  
  
• Reduced ability to end tenancies easily
  
  

This added complexity may make hands-on long letting less viable, especially for time-poor landlords or those with just one or two properties.

The Short Let Solution for Modern Landlords

The property landscape is changing — and so are landlord priorities. With the Renters Reform Bill set to introduce more restrictions and less flexibility, short letting provides a powerful alternative.

At Pass the Keys, we help landlords:

• Maximise their income through smart pricing
  
  
• Manage bookings, guests, and property upkeep
  
  
• Stay compliant while remaining hands-off
  
  

Whether you’re considering a switch from OpenRent, preparing for reform, or just looking to earn more without the headache — short let is worth exploring.

Ready to Make the Switch?

If the Renters Reform Bill has you rethinking your letting strategy, we’re here to help.

Visit www.passthekeys.com to get your free income estimate, or speak to your local expert today.

Pass the Keys – The UK’s leading short let management service.