New rights for renters and more transparent rules for landlords will start to come into effect in Amber Valley from December 2025, as the Government’s new Renters’ Rights Act is rolled out across England.
Amber Valley Borough Council is highlighting the upcoming changes to help residents and landlords understand how the new rules will be introduced locally.
In Amber Valley, around 5,000 households rent privately. The Act, which is being introduced in phases set by central Government, is designed to give tenants greater security in their homes while providing a clear set of expectations for landlords.
To support this work nationally, the Government has announced £18.2 million of funding for local housing authorities, allocated according to the size of each area’s private rented sector.
The first stage begins in December 2025, when councils will receive stronger powers to investigate and enforce standards in the private rented sector. These powers will be backed by tougher financial penalties, with the most serious breaches, such as unlawful eviction, carrying fines of up to £40,000.
From May 2026, Section 21 “no fault” evictions will be abolished, giving renters more certainty about their homes. If a landlord needs to end a tenancy, they will have to give a valid legal reason under updated national rules, such as selling the property, moving in, or responding to serious issues like unpaid rent.
Beyond the changes to evictions, the Act brings in several measures designed to make renting fairer and more stable for tenants.
Rent increases will normally be limited to once a year and must follow a clear process, helping make costs more predictable. Landlords and letting agents will also need to advertise a set asking rent, preventing “bidding wars” where prospective tenants feel pressured to offer above the advertised price.
The Act also strengthens rights around pets, with landlords required to reasonably consider requests from tenants.
Later in the rollout, landlords will need to register their properties on a new national database, and a dedicated ombudsman service is expected to offer tenants a simpler way to resolve disputes.
Cllr Matt Allwood, Cabinet Member for Housing and Climate Change for Amber Valley Borough Council, said: "Amber Valley is fortunate that most landlords already provide safe, high-quality homes, and the Renters’ Rights Act builds on that strong foundation. It introduces a clearer, fairer framework that benefits everyone.
"For tenants, this means greater stability and confidence to put down roots, stay longer in their homes, and feel secure as they build their lives and communities. It’s a big step toward reducing the risk of homelessness and creating stronger neighbourhoods.
"For landlords, the Act offers clarity and consistency on how and when they can regain their properties, while ensuring that good practice is recognised and supported.
"We’re committed to working within the Government’s timetable to implement these changes locally. This legislation also aligns with our wider ambition to reduce health inequalities by helping more residents access affordable, decent, and suitable housing."
Landlords in Amber Valley are being encouraged to use the phased timetable to get ready for the changes. This includes reviewing existing tenancy agreements, becoming familiar with how the new rules will work, and keeping an eye on further Government guidance as each phase is confirmed.
Tenants do not need to take any immediate action. The Act is designed to give renters greater confidence throughout their tenancy, helping them feel more secure in their home, understand how rent changes should work, and know what to expect when applying for a new property.
Residents and landlords can find national guidance on GOV.UK, and anyone needing independent advice can contact organisations such as Derbyshire Law Centre, Citizens Advice or Shelter.
Contact the team directly on 01773 570222 or email enquiry@ambervalley.gov.uk
