2025: A landmark year for UK renters and homebuyers – what consumers need to know
From major rental reforms to new powers tackling unsafe or empty buildings, 2025 has become one of the most transformative years for housing across the UK. Whether renting, buying, or managing a property, millions of people will feel the effects of the changes rolling out nation by nation.
Propertymark has broken down what these changes mean specifically for people across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and why working with a qualified property agent is more important than ever.
ENGLAND — Stronger rights for renters and big ambitions for new homes
Renters’ Rights Act – coming further into force in three phases during 2026
England is undergoing the largest shake-up of private renting in decades. Key consumer changes include:
End of “no-fault” evictions: Tenants can no longer be asked to leave a property without a valid reason once the new rules take effect.
Rolling, periodic tenancies will be introduced from 1 May 2026: Meaning all old, fixed term assured shorthold tenancies will be discontinued and automatically become an assured periodic tenancy, giving renters greater flexibility and stability.
Limits on rent increases: Landlords can raise rent no more than once a year and must give two months’ notice.
No more rental bidding wars: Agents and landlords won’t be allowed to ask for, or accept, bids above the advertised rent.
Caps on rent in advance: Tenants will not face demands for several months’ rent upfront
Right to request a pet: Requests must be considered fairly, and refusals must be justified.
New Ombudsman and national landlord database (late 2026): Easier routes for resolving disputes and checking a landlord’s compliance.
What this means for consumers:
Renting in England should become more structured, with clearer rules and fairer treatment integrated into every tenancy agreement.
Planning and infrastructure reforms
The UK Government aims to build up to 1.5 million new homes, backed by simplified planning processes and stronger land assembly powers via the Planning and Infrastructure Act that gained Royal Assent on 18 December 2025.
What this means for consumers:
More new homes, especially in high-demand areas. The overall aim is to help improve choice and reduce pressure on house prices over time.
ENGLAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND — Stamp Duty changes
Updated Stamp Duty thresholds
First-time buyers: Stamp Duty Land Tax starts £300,000 for first-time buyers (buying a residential property worth £500,000 or less).
Other buyers: Stamp Duty Land Tax starts at properties over £125,000.
What this means for consumers:
Some buyers will pay more tax than before, which is important to factor into budgeting when purchasing a home.
NORTHERN IRELAND – Crackdown on derelict buildings
Dilapidation Bill — Modernising action on unsafe or abandoned buildings
Local councils will gain clearer powers to require owners to repair, improve, or demolish dangerous properties.
What this means for consumers:
Communities should see faster action on problem buildings, improving safety and neighbourhood appearance.
SCOTLAND — Rent Controls, pet rights, and stronger homelessness prevention
Housing (Scotland) Act 2025
Specific to those who live in Scotland, this new law brings in significant protections for private renters:
Potential rent control zones: Local councils can propose areas where rent rises are capped.
Fair pet requests: Landlords must give a reasonable decision within 30 days.
Tougher homelessness prevention duties: Public bodies must act earlier to stop people losing their homes.
What this means for consumers:
Renters should gain extra piece of mind and more stable rental costs. Anyone facing housing instability should receive help sooner, helping to reduce the risk of homelessness.
Heat in buildings still under revision
Plans to decarbonise heating by 2045 continue to evolve. Final obligations on homeowners have not yet been confirmed.
What this means for consumers:
No immediate requirements, but future upgrades (like heat pumps or insulation) are expected and may come with support schemes.
WALES — Focus on building safety and housing access
Building safety reforms
Wales is developing stronger safety enforcement for tall buildings and Homes of Multiple Occupation, though the final legislation is still progressing.
What this means for consumers:
Residents in flats and shared accommodation will benefit from clearer standards and stricter oversight.
Homelessness and social housing allocation reforms
Plans aim to widen access to homelessness support and ensure social housing goes to those in greatest need.
What this means for consumers:
People at risk of homelessness should receive earlier and more targeted support and waiting lists should become fairer and more transparent.
Nathan Emerson, CEO at Propertymark, said:
“The housing landscape has changed dramatically in 2025. From new rights for renters to major planning reforms and stronger safety rules, it has never been more important to use a qualified professional when considering moving house.
“It is positive to see new protections introduced to help safeguard those who may find themselves in a vulnerable position regarding housing, as well as see plans to increase the supply of sustainable housing and keep pace with ever growing demand right the way across the entire UK.
“Whether renting or buying, consumers should consider working with a Propertymark Protected property agent, who can help navigate these forthcoming and complex changes.”
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