A major long-term focus of the Renters’ Rights Act is the introduction of higher property standards across the private rental sector.

These changes are designed to ensure that all rented homes are safe, well-maintained and suitable for modern living, raising expectations for landlords while improving conditions for tenants.

What are property standards in the rental sector?

Property standards refer to the legal requirements landlords must meet to ensure their property is safe and fit for occupation.

This includes areas such as structural safety, heating, electrical systems, gas safety and general living conditions. While regulations already exist, enforcement has varied and the new legislation aims to create a more consistent and higher standard across all rental properties.

What’s changing under the Renters’ Rights Act?

Under the new legislation, landlords will face stricter requirements to ensure their properties meet higher living standards.

This includes the introduction of a Decent Homes Standard for the private rental sector, which will require properties to be free from serious hazards and in a good state of repair. In addition, there is a strong focus on improving energy efficiency, with most rental properties expected to achieve a minimum EPC rating of C by 2030.

Another key development is the introduction of Awaab’s Law, which will require landlords to address serious issues such as damp and mould within a defined timeframe. This places a legal obligation on landlords to act quickly when problems arise, rather than allowing issues to persist.

How will this affect landlords?

For landlords, these changes mean a greater responsibility to maintain and upgrade their properties.

Properties that do not meet the required standards may need investment to bring them up to compliance, whether that involves improving insulation, upgrading heating systems or carrying out general repairs. Landlords will also need to respond more quickly to maintenance issues, ensuring that any problems are addressed within the required timeframes.

This shift places more emphasis on proactive property management, where regular inspections and ongoing maintenance are essential to avoid larger issues developing over time.

What does this mean for tenants?

For tenants, higher property standards bring clear and tangible benefits.

Tenants can expect homes that are safer, warmer and better maintained, with quicker responses to any issues that arise. The introduction of stricter rules around repairs and living conditions provides greater reassurance that problems will be taken seriously and resolved promptly.

This helps improve overall quality of life and ensures that rental properties meet modern expectations.

Why this change matters

Improving property standards is a key part of creating a more professional and reliable rental market.

It ensures consistency across the sector and helps remove substandard housing, while also encouraging landlords to invest in their properties. In the long term, this leads to better outcomes for both landlords and tenants, with properties that are more desirable, efficient and sustainable.

It also reflects a wider shift towards accountability, where landlords are expected to meet clearly defined standards at all times.

The importance of proactive property maintenance

With higher standards in place, maintaining a property is no longer just about reacting to issues as they arise.

Landlords will need to take a proactive approach, carrying out regular checks, planning upgrades where necessary and ensuring all legal requirements are consistently met. This not only helps avoid compliance issues but also protects the long-term value of the property.

A well-maintained property is more likely to attract and retain good tenants, reducing void periods and supporting stable rental income.

Need support with property compliance and management?

At Seths Estate Agents, we help landlords across Leicester stay compliant with changing legislation while ensuring their properties are maintained to the highest standards.

From routine inspections and maintenance coordination to full property management, we provide a professional service that protects both your property and your investment.

If you are currently self-managing or working with another agent, now is the time to review your approach and make sure you are fully prepared for these changes.

📞 Call our team on 0116 266 9977 for expert property management.