If you own a rental property in Brislington — whether it’s a terraced house off Bath Road, a flat near Brislington Retail Park, or a family home close to Brislington Community School — the Renters’ Rights Act (RRA) affects you directly.
The Renters’ Rights Act represents the most significant reform of residential lettings in England for decades. As the legislation is implemented during 2026, landlords should understand how the changes affect the way they let and manage their properties.
At CJ Hole Brislington, we have been helping landlords across the BS4 postcode navigate the lettings market for generations. We want to make sure you approach these changes informed, prepared, and confident.
What is the Renters’ Rights Act?
The Renters’ Rights Act is landmark legislation that reshapes how the private rented sector in England operates. It introduces reforms designed to improve security for tenants, strengthen standards across the sector, and modernise the legal framework for renting.
For landlords, it means important changes to tenancy agreements, possession procedures, rent increases, and future compliance requirements.
The key changes you need to understand are covered below.
The move to periodic tenancies
Under the Renters’ Rights Act, fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies are replaced by periodic tenancies for new residential lettings.
In practice, tenants can give at least two months’ notice when they choose to leave. Landlords must rely on the relevant statutory possession grounds if they need to recover their property.
For Brislington landlords with properties let to working professionals commuting into Bristol city centre or families settled near Hungerford Road or St Anne’s, this changes how you plan for future tenancy management and possession.
Section 21 is gone — here’s what replaces it
The Renters’ Rights Act abolishes Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions. Landlords who need to regain possession must instead rely on the appropriate Section 8 grounds introduced or amended under the legislation.
Key Section 8 grounds to know
The updated Section 8 grounds include:
- Ground 1A, where a landlord intends to sell the property, subject to the relevant qualifying conditions and notice requirements.
- Ground 1, where the landlord or a qualifying close family member intends to move into the property, subject to the statutory requirements.
- Rent arrears grounds, where the required legal thresholds are met.
- Anti-social behaviour grounds, which continue to allow landlords to seek possession where serious issues arise.
Serving possession notices correctly is essential. Following the statutory process and keeping accurate records can help avoid unnecessary delays.
What the new pet permission rules mean for you
Under the Renters’ Rights Act, tenants can request permission to keep a pet. Landlords must consider each request and cannot unreasonably refuse consent.
Where appropriate, landlords may require suitable pet insurance if permitted under the legislation and accompanying regulations. Requests should be dealt with within the statutory timescales, with reasons provided where consent is refused.
For landlords with properties in Brislington — particularly houses with gardens along roads like Wick Road or near Brislington Brook — this is another aspect of tenancy management worth planning for.
Preparing for the future Decent Homes Standard
The government has confirmed its intention to introduce the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector. The detailed requirements and implementation timetable are still being finalised.
Landlords should continue meeting all existing legal repair and safety obligations while considering whether older properties may require future improvements as further guidance becomes available.
The new Private Rented Sector Database
A national Private Rented Sector Database will be introduced as part of the Renters’ Rights Act reforms. Registration is expected to be introduced in phases as the Government implements the new system.
Landlords should keep up to date with Government guidance and be prepared to register when required.
What this means for Brislington’s rental market
Brislington continues to be a popular location for renters thanks to its transport links into Bristol city centre, access via Bath Road and the A4, local amenities, and a range of nearby schools and green spaces.
Well-presented, professionally managed rental properties continue to attract strong interest from prospective tenants, although market conditions can vary over time.
The Renters’ Rights Act changes how rental properties are managed, but landlords who understand the legislation and keep their properties compliant will be well placed to navigate the evolving market.
How CJ Hole can help you stay ahead
At CJ Hole, we have been supporting landlords across Bristol and the South West since 1867. That is over 150 years of lettings experience, helping landlords adapt to changing legislation and market conditions.
Our Brislington team knows the local rental market, the tenant profiles, and the practical steps landlords can take to prepare for the latest regulatory changes.
Our lettings management service covers
- Support with tenancy documentation.
- Tenant referencing and vetting.
- Rent collection and arrears management.
- Property inspections and maintenance coordination.
- Guidance on possession procedures and ongoing legislative changes.
Whether you own a single rental flat on Bath Road or a portfolio of properties across Brislington and beyond, we are here to help you manage your property with confidence.
Act now and prepare for the changes
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces significant changes for landlords across England. Taking time to review your tenancy documentation, property standards, and management processes now can help you prepare for the new legal framework.
Speak to the CJ Hole Brislington team if you would like professional guidance on how the changes may affect your property. We are here to provide clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances.
Visit brislington.cjhole.co.uk to learn more about our lettings services or arrange a free, no-obligation property valuation with our local team.
If you’d like to understand your property’s current rental value or discuss your options as a landlord, get in touch with the CJ Hole Brislington team. We are here to help you stay informed, prepare for legislative changes, and manage your property with confidence.
