As Christmas comes and goes, many landlords will be enjoying a well-earned break. But this year, 27th December 2025 marks a major shift in how the Private Rented Sector (PRS) will be regulated, and it’s a date that cannot be ignored.

On this day, the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 comes into force, giving Local Housing Authorities (LHAs) a powerful new set of enforcement tools. While the big tenancy reforms arrive later in 2026, the changes in December are all about enforcement, inspections, and compliance.

In short:
Councils will have more power than ever before, and they will be expected to use it.

For landlords, this is the moment to make sure everything is in order.

What Happens on 27th December 2025?

From this date, every local authority in England gains:

1. A Legal Duty to Enforce Landlord Legislation

For the first time, councils are not just allowed to enforce the rules they are required to. This means more inspections, more investigations, and more action on breaches that may previously have gone unnoticed.

2. New Investigatory Powers

Local authorities will be able to:

• Demand tenancy documents, marketing records, fee details, and licensing information
• Request information from letting agents, landlords, or anyone who has had a role in the tenancy in the past year
• Access third-party data sources such as Council Tax records and deposit schemes
• Enter business premises (including letting agency offices) to inspect and copy documents
• Enter rented homes where there is reasonable suspicion of non-compliance
• Seize documents if they believe evidence may be hidden or destroyed

For landlords, this means that your paperwork must be complete, accurate, and accessible at all times.

3. Stronger Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to provide information when asked or providing false or incomplete records is itself an offence. Civil penalties and prosecutions are expected to rise.

Why This Matters: Compliance Will Become Proactive, Not Reactive

Historically, enforcement often relied on tenant complaints.
After 27th December, that changes.

With new powers and a new duty to enforce, councils can and likely will begin actively seeking out issues. This includes cross-checking data and investigating properties that may not meet licensing, documentation, or safety requirements.

Landlords who keep good records and maintain their properties properly will be in a strong position. Those who haven’t kept up with the paperwork may find themselves under pressure.

What Landlords Need to Do Now

To stay ahead, landlords should take action before the December deadline. Here’s a practical checklist:

✔ Ensure all tenancy documents are complete and up to date

• Signed agreements
• How to Rent guides
• Deposit protection information
• Right to Rent checks
• Gas, electrical, and EPC documentation

✔ Review your licensing status

If your property requires an HMO licence or falls under a selective licensing scheme, check expiry dates and compliance now. Councils will be looking closely at licensing breaches.

✔ Organise your digital and physical records

Authorities may request documentation with tight deadlines. Have everything accessible, backed up, and clearly labelled.

✔ Check your marketing and letting records

Councils can now request past adverts, listing dates, fee transparency evidence, and details of any viewings or offers.

✔ Confirm your property meets all safety and maintenance standards

With increased powers of entry, councils will be more proactive in inspecting homes where standards are in question.

Landlords Who Prepare Now Will Be in the Best Position

The 27th December changes are not about catching landlords out they’re about driving professionalism and improving standards. Good landlords will welcome clarity and consistency. But preparation is key.

By taking simple steps now to get your paperwork in order, review your compliance, and ensure your property meets the required standards, you can approach the coming changes with confidence.

Need Support? Boydens Are Here to Help

At Boydens, we work closely with landlords across Essex and Suffolk to ensure full compliance with legislation old and new. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of local authority expectations, our team can help you:

• audit your tenancy files
• check licensing requirements
• review your property safety compliance
• prepare for potential inspections or documentation requests

If you'd like help getting ready for 27th December, or simply want an expert eye over your file, speak to our team today.

Because in a changing landscape, trusted guidance matters more than ever.