By Hana, your Welfare and Community Officer
If you're renting whilst you're studying, the law has just changed in ways you'll want to know about. The Renters' Right Act, which received Royal Assent at the end of October, introduces major protections for tenants - including students - and aims to make renting fairer and more stable. While the Act is not yet in force, it sets the framework for the most significant overhaul of private renting in over 30 years. We know many of you often face challenges in the rental market, and this legislation offers long-overdue protections and opportunities for change.
We have been lobbying the Government on your behalf to make this happen, working with the National Union of Students (NUS) and students’ unions across the Russell Group to respond to consultations, lobby MPs, and secure key concessions that will directly benefit student renters.
“The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is a landmark step toward a fairer, safer, and more secure rental market. For students, it promises greater autonomy, fewer financial barriers, and stronger protections. We’re proud to have played a part in this change—and we’re not done yet. Let’s keep pushing for a rental system that works for everyone.”
Arhham, Accommodation and Housing Officer
Here's what's actually in the Act, and what it means for your next housing decision:
What’s in the new law?
The law provides new protections for students when renting in the private rental sector (note: the provisions don’t apply to students renting in halls).
Although the full implementation timeline is still to be announced, here are some of the headline reforms that will reshape student renting:
Abolition of Section 21 'no-fault' evictions
Students will no longer be evicted without reason, giving you more stability and confidence to challenge poor housing conditions without fear of retaliation. However, the law will allow landlords to regain possession of student HMOs for the next academic year, with specific notice periods and restrictions.
Rent increase protections
Landlords can only raise rent once a year, and increases must reflect market rates. Students can challenge unfair hikes at a tribunal.
Ban on bidding wars
Landlords must advertise a fixed rent and cannot accept offers above it - helping prevent price inflation in competitive student cities.
Decent Homes Standard & Awaab’s Law
These will now apply to private rentals, ensuring student homes meet basic safety and quality standards.
Cap on rent in advance
Landlords can only charge a maximum of one month's rent in advance, protecting international students who are often asked to pay substantial sums up front.
End of fixed term contracts and more flexibility
Students will have rolling contracts and be able to give 2 months notice to leave the tenancy if their circumstances change or they're unhappy with living conditions
New Ombudsman
A free, impartial service will help resolve disputes between tenants and landlords, offering students a route to justice without costly legal battles.
Limiting the Letting Season
The student housing market can often force students to sign contracts nearly a year in advance, creating pressure and stress if things change. The Act says that landlords can’t use the new rules to regain possession of student HMOs for the next academic year, if the students entered into the tenancy over 6 months before the move in date. This provision will limit the early letting season, giving students more time to make informed decisions and reducing pressure to commit prematurely.
What Happens Next?
While the Act is now law, none of its substantive provisions are yet in force. The government must still publish detailed regulations and set a commencement date - this is expected to be sometime in mid to late 2026. We’ll be watching closely and continuing to advocate for a smooth rollout for students, and keeping you informed every step of the way.
Renting and have an issue or question?
When the Act comes into force, you’ll have more power to challenge unfair practices. We’ll keep you updated as the implementation timeline becomes clearer. However, you have rights now and can speak to our free, independent Students’ Union Advice Service at any time.
The University of London Housing Service have more information on the impact of the act on students.