Renters’ Rights Bill: Key Updates Landlords in Bournemouth and Poole Need to Know

The Renters’ Rights Bill has entered its crucial Ping-Pong stage, where the House of Commons and House of Lords exchange their positions on amendments. On 8 September, the Government used its majority in the Commons to overturn several key changes put forward by the Lords.

For landlords across Bournemouth and Poole, these decisions will shape what the final version of the Bill looks like—and how you’ll need to prepare for the changes once it becomes law.

Which amendments were rejected?

Most of the House of Lords’ suggested changes were voted down. Here are the most relevant points for landlords:

• No separate pet deposit – The Lords had proposed allowing landlords to request an additional “pet deposit” (up to three weeks’ rent). This was rejected. The Government believes the current rules—where landlords can require tenants to take out pet insurance—are enough, and that extra deposits would be a barrier to renters.

• Ground 4A (student tenancies) – The Bill will only apply this to student Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), in line with the academic year. Proposals to expand this further were blocked, meaning smaller student lets won’t be eligible.

• Re-letting after sale – The Lords wanted to shorten the period landlords must wait before re-letting a property repossessed for sale, from 12 months to 6 months. This was rejected to prevent misuse and protect tenants.

• Ground for carers – An amendment allowing possession if a landlord needed to house a carer (for themselves or a family member) was turned down. The Government insists existing grounds cover these scenarios.

• Burden of proof for penalties – Proposals to shift the burden of proof in cases of rental discrimination and bidding were also rejected. The Government says the current approach is consistent with other regulations.

What was accepted?

• Ground 5A (agricultural landlords) – This has been slightly expanded to allow agricultural landlords to regain possession if they need to house not only employees but also self-employed agricultural workers.

What happens next?

The Bill now returns to the House of Lords. While there’s no set date for their review, Parliament enters its Conference Season recess on 19 September, so final agreement is unlikely before then. Both Houses must approve the same wording before the Bill can receive Royal Assent and become law.

What landlords in Bournemouth and Poole should do now

• Keep informed – The Bill is moving quickly, and further adjustments may still come. Staying up to date will help you avoid costly mistakes once the new rules are in force.

• Review your tenancy agreements – Especially if you rent to students or allow pets. The Bill will limit flexibility around deposits and fixed-term tenancies.

• Plan ahead for repossessions – Note the 12-month restriction if you repossess a property for sale. This will limit how quickly you can re-let in Bournemouth’s fast-moving rental market.

We’ll continue to review the final wording of the Bill and provide an updated fact sheet so Bournemouth and Poole landlords can prepare with confidence.