Is Your Property Ready for the Renters’ Rights Bill? Here’s How Inspections and Inventories Can Help

With the Renters’ Rights Bill moving closer to implementation, landlords and letting agents are being urged to prepare for sweeping changes across the rental sector. From the abolition of Section 21 to stricter requirements around property standards and tenancy agreements, the pressure to comply has never been greater.

One of the most effective (and often overlooked) ways to stay ahead? Detailed property inspections and professional inventory reports. Let’s break down what’s changing – and how routine inspections and clear documentation can help you stay compliant, avoid disputes, and protect your investment.

What Is the Renters’ Rights Bill?

The Renters’ Rights Bill is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to rebalance the power between landlords and tenants. While it’s still going through Parliament, key changes expected include:

• Abolishing Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions 
• Extending the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector 
• Creating a new Ombudsman scheme for all landlords 
• Introducing a Property Portal to centralise compliance 
• Limiting fixed-term tenancies to more flexible rolling contracts 

These changes mean landlords will need to show clear, evidence-backed reasons for ending tenancies and ensure their properties meet defined living standards. That’s where inspections and inventories play a crucial role.

Why Property Inventories Matter More Than Ever

A property inventory report documents the condition and contents of a rental property at the start and end of a tenancy. This includes written descriptions, photographs, and in some cases, tenant signatures.

Here’s why this matters under the Renters’ Rights Bill:

✅ Stronger Evidence in Disputes

With Section 21 on its way out, any tenancy termination will likely need to go through a formal process. An inventory acts as key evidence for issues like damage, cleanliness, or neglect – helping you prove grounds for repossession if needed.

✅ Improved Tenant Transparency

A detailed, unbiased inventory protects both parties and sets expectations from day one. It helps reduce deposit disputes, builds trust, and supports smoother check-outs.

✅ Compliance with Decent Homes Standard

If the property fails to meet the updated standard, landlords could be held accountable. Inventories, when paired with regular inspections, help track maintenance issues early and show that you’re proactively managing property quality.

The Role of Mid-Term Inspections

Regular mid-term inspections are another crucial tool in your compliance toolkit. These visits assess how the tenant is treating the property and identify any hazards or repair needs before they escalate.

Here’s how inspections help:

• Spot health and safety risks early (like damp, leaks, broken smoke alarms) 
• Provide photographic evidence for property condition throughout the tenancy 
• Ensure tenancy agreements are being followed 
• Record any breaches or unauthorised changes 

Inspections offer peace of mind – and if managed by a professional third-party provider like No Letting Go, they also deliver impartial, high-quality reporting.

Getting Ready: What Landlords and Agents Should Do Now

Preparing for the Renters’ Rights Bill doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to start:

1. Update your tenancy processes: Make sure your check-in, mid-term, and check-out procedures are thorough and well-documented. 
2. Invest in professional inventory reports: Choose a provider like No Letting Go that offers independent, detailed, and fully compliant reports. 
3. Schedule regular inspections: Stay on top of property standards and spot issues before they become legal liabilities. 
4. Keep digital records: Use cloud-based tools (like Kaptur or Konnect) to store inspection history and create a defensible audit trail. 
5. Stay informed: Keep an eye on the final version of the Bill and be ready to adapt as the rules are finalised. 

Final Thoughts

The Renters’ Rights Bill marks a significant shift in how tenancies are managed in the UK. While it introduces more responsibility for landlords, it also offers an opportunity to build stronger, more transparent relationships with tenants.

By investing in professional property inspections and inventory services, you’ll not only stay compliant – you’ll also save time, reduce disputes, and protect your assets.

📌 Need help preparing? No Letting Go offers nationwide property reports, mid-term inspections, and end-of-tenancy services that support you through every stage of the tenancy. Learn more here.