2025’s sweeping housing reforms sees landlords prepare for change – Propertymark

Millions of people across the UK have seen the rules around renting, buying and managing homes shift rapidly this year, Propertymark says.

Major legislation has begun reshaping rights for tenants, tax thresholds for buyers and safety obligations for property owners.

The laws have helped mark 2025 as one of the most significant moments for housing reform in a generation, the organisation says.

Changing housing landscape

Nathan Emerson, Propertymark’s chief executive, said: “The housing landscape has changed dramatically in 2025.

“From new rights for renters to major planning reforms and stronger safety rules, it has never been more important to use a qualified professional when considering moving house.”

He added: “It is positive to see new protections introduced to help safeguard those who may find themselves in a vulnerable position regarding housing, as well as see plans to increase the supply of sustainable housing and keep pace with ever growing demand right the way across the entire UK.”

Renters’ Rights Act impact

In England, the Renters’ Rights Act is set to overhaul the private rented sector in stages through 2026.

The ending of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions and fixed term assured shorthold contracts becoming periodic agreements from 1 May 2026, are among them.

Landlords will also face clearer boundaries on rent as increases can only happen once each year, with at least two months’ notice.

The government is also eliminating rental bidding, preventing agents or owners from asking for or accepting offers above the advertised price.

Landlord rules will tighten

Rules on upfront payments will tighten too, limiting demands for large sums in advance.

Meanwhile, requests for pets must now be treated reasonably, and landlords refusing must explain their decision.

The new ombudsman and national landlord register coming in late 2026, means enforcement and oversight will expand.

Changes in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is also strengthening action on buildings left derelict or unsafe.

A new Dilapidation Bill will give councils clearer authority to demand repairs, improvements or demolition when properties fall into neglect.

The intention is to protect neighbourhoods and quicken responses to hazards that affect local communities.

Rent controls in Scotland

Scotland is moving in a different direction by giving councils the power to apply rent controls in specific zones.

Under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, renters will gain firmer rights around keeping pets, with landlords required to respond within 30 days.

Agencies and public bodies must also intervene earlier when people are at risk of losing their homes.

The government is still finalising its long-term plans to decarbonise heating, so no immediate obligations apply to homeowners, although future upgrades to insulation and heating systems are expected.

Wales reforms building safety

Wales is progressing reforms designed to tighten safety in tall buildings and Houses in Multiple Occupation.

While the legislation is still being finalised, it is expected to reinforce oversight for those living in flats or shared housing.

Welsh ministers also want changes to homelessness support and social housing allocation to ensure those most in need get help sooner, reducing delays and improving transparency.