Date Published 12 September 2025
The Government has rejected the majority of House of Lords amendments to the Renters' Rights Bill, warning that several proposals could leave the system open to exploitation by landlords. Peers had suggested a number of changes, including allowing landlords to request an additional deposit from tenants with pets and enabling landlords to repossess properties in order to house a carer for themselves or a family member. However, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook argued that such measures could be misused and undermine the Bill's intent.
Industry figures have strongly criticised the decision. Marc von Grundherr, director of Benham and Reeves, said: 'Matthew Pennycook has justified rejecting the majority of Lords' amendments by suggesting that landlords would exploit any concessions to behave poorly. This narrative is both unfair and inaccurate. The vast majority of landlords are honest, hard-working individuals who operate in an ethically sound manner and provide a vital service to millions of tenants. Demonising them is not only misleading, it risks further destabilising the rental market at a time when supply is already critically short – so it's extremely disappointing to see landlords used as a scapegoat to prevent the necessary changes required to balance the Bill.'
Sam Humphries, head of M&A at property management platform Dwelly, echoed these concerns, warning of mounting pressures on the courts: 'Even before this Bill has been implemented, we're already seeing a rise in landlord repossessions, driven by a lack of trust in the court system and a desire to regain control of their portfolios before these changes come into effect. With only minor amendments made to the Bill and the abolition of Section 21 evictions set to go ahead, this trend is only likely to intensify, putting even greater strain on the courts and leaving many more tenants without a roof over their head. It underlines the unintended consequences of pushing through sweeping reforms without properly considering the realities of the rental market.'
One Lords' amendment did secure Government backing. It allows farmers to provide accommodation for incoming agricultural workers regardless of whether they are employed directly or self-employed. Without this change, the Bill would have restricted possession grounds solely to employed workers, leaving many farming businesses struggling to house essential staff. The National Farmers' Union had argued that the exemption was vital, pointing out that many agricultural roles—such as share-farming partners, self-employed shepherds, or dairy relief workers—do not fall neatly into direct employment contracts. Acknowledging this, Pennycook said: 'We believe this small technical change will support the government's clear intention of ensuring that the agricultural sector can continue to function effectively without compromising wider security of tenure, and I am pleased that both Lord Carrington and the National Farmers' Union indicated their support for these changes.'
With the Renters' Rights Bill now edging closer to Royal Assent, industry stakeholders are bracing for its implementation. Adams Estates will continue to keep clients updated on final amendments and the expected timelines for the Bill to come into effect.
