What Hasn't Changed Under The Renters' Rights Act
What Hasn't Changed?
The Renters’ Rights Act introduced some of the biggest changes to renting in England for decades.
However, not everything has changed.
Many of the legal responsibilities that applied before the Act are still in place today. Landlords continue to have important legal duties, while tenants continue to have responsibilities throughout their tenancy.
Understanding what hasn’t changed can be just as important as understanding the new rules.
Paying Rent
The Renters’ Rights Act didn’t remove a tenant’s obligation to pay rent.
Tenants must continue to:
- pay rent on time
- pay the correct amount
- comply with the tenancy agreement where it doesn’t conflict with the law
If rent isn’t paid, landlords may still be able to seek possession using the appropriate Section 8 grounds.
Looking After the Property
Tenants are still expected to treat their home responsibly.
This includes:
- keeping the property reasonably clean
- avoiding deliberate or negligent damage
- reporting repairs when they arise
- allowing reasonable access for inspections or repairs where required
Normal wear and tear is still not the tenant’s responsibility.
Repairs and Maintenance
Landlords remain responsible for carrying out repairs they’re legally required to complete.
This includes maintaining:
- the structure and exterior of the property
- heating and hot water systems
- plumbing and sanitation
- electrical installations
- other essential services covered by housing law
The Renters’ Rights Act strengthened protections for tenants, but it didn’t remove these long-standing repair obligations.
Tenancy Deposits
The rules surrounding tenancy deposits remain largely unchanged.
Landlords must still:
- protect qualifying deposits in a Government-approved tenancy deposit scheme
- provide the required prescribed information within the legal timescales
- return the deposit promptly at the end of the tenancy, subject to any lawful deductions
If a landlord fails to comply with the tenancy deposit rules, tenants may still be entitled to claim compensation.
Gas and Electrical Safety
Landlords must continue to comply with existing safety legislation.
This includes:
- annual gas safety checks where required
- electrical safety inspections
- smoke alarms
carbon monoxide alarms where required by law
These duties existed before the Renters’ Rights Act and continue to apply.
Anti-Social Behaviour
The Renters’ Rights Act doesn’t give tenants permission to behave irresponsibly.
Tenants must continue to:
- avoid causing nuisance to neighbours
- avoid anti-social behaviour
- comply with the law
- respect the rights of others living nearby
Serious anti-social behaviour can still provide grounds for possession under the new tenancy system.
Common Misunderstandings
“Landlords Can’t Evict Anyone Anymore”
No.
Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions have ended, but landlords can still seek possession using one or more of the statutory Section 8 grounds where they apply.
“I Don’t Have to Pay Rent”
Incorrect.
Your legal obligation to pay rent hasn’t changed.
“Deposits No Longer Need Protecting”
Incorrect.
The tenancy deposit protection rules remain in force.
“Landlords No Longer Need to Carry Out Repairs”
No.
Landlords continue to have legal repairing obligations throughout the tenancy.
“The Renters’ Rights Act Changed Everything”
Not at all.
The Act introduced significant reforms, but many of the rules governing repairs, deposits, safety, rent payments and tenant responsibilities remain the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Still Have to Pay My Rent?
Yes.
The Renters’ Rights Act didn’t change your obligation to pay rent in accordance with your tenancy agreement.
Are Tenancy Deposits Still Protected?
Yes.
Qualifying tenancy deposits must still be protected in an approved tenancy deposit protection scheme.
Does My Landlord Still Have to Carry Out Repairs?
Yes.
Landlords remain responsible for the repairs required by housing law.
Can I Still Be Evicted?
Yes.
Although Section 21 has been abolished, landlords can still seek possession using the appropriate Section 8 grounds where the legal requirements are met.
Do I Still Have Responsibilities as a Tenant?
Absolutely.
Tenants remain responsible for paying rent, looking after the property, reporting repairs and complying with the terms of their tenancy where those terms are lawful.
Key Takeaways
- The Renters' Rights Act introduced major reforms, but many existing rules remain unchanged.
- Tenants must still pay rent and look after the property.
- Landlords remain responsible for repairs, safety and tenancy deposit protection.
- Section 21 has gone, but landlords can still recover possession using Section 8 where the law allows.
- Understanding both the new rules and the long-standing responsibilities will help you enjoy a more successful tenancy.
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