Simple, honest and transparent guidance for landlords in Manchester & South Manchester.
Introduction
The private rented sector in Manchester — especially hotspots like Didsbury, Chorlton, Withington, Burnage and Fallowfield — is about to experience one of the biggest shifts in over a decade.
With the Renters’ Rights Bill 2025 coming fully into force in May 2026, experienced landlords need a simple, honest and transparent breakdown of what this means for tenancy management, property compliance and long-term rental strategy.
This guide is written for established landlords who want clarity without the noise.
What Are the Key Changes for Landlords?
1. Section 21 ‘No-Fault’ Evictions Will End
You’ll only be able to regain possession through approved grounds. These include selling, moving in, breach of tenancy or arrears.
This increases tenant security and places more focus on evidence-based tenancy management.
2. Fixed Terms Are Being Replaced With Periodic Tenancies
All ASTs move to a rolling periodic model.
This simplifies renewal paperwork but means renters can leave at any time with notice.
3. Rent Increases Limited to Once Per Year
You must follow the new formal process, no more ad-hoc increases.
4. Bidding Wars Are Banned
No more promoting offers above asking price.
This affects high-demand areas like West Didsbury, Chorlton and Fallowfield.
5. Tenants Can Request Pets
Landlords can still apply:
-
Pet insurance
-
Cleaning obligations
-
Behaviour clauses
But cannot issue blanket refusals.
6. A New National “Decency Standard”
This covers:
-
Damp/mould
-
Ventilation
-
Heating
-
Structural soundness
Older Manchester terraces will require the most attention.
7. Mandatory Landlord Portal & Ombudsman
Every landlord must register, and disputes will have a formal resolution route.
Market Impact: What This Means for South Manchester Landlords
Manchester’s rental supply is already far lower than demand and several landlords may exit the market due to the reforms.
This means:
– Strong rental demand will continue
– Well-maintained properties will achieve premium rents
– Professional landlords will out-perform “accidental” landlords
– Tenants will expect higher standards and clearer communication
What Manchester Landlords Should Do Right Now
Here’s your honest, actionable checklist:
1. Update Your Tenancy Agreements
Ensure they meet the new rules on:
-
Periodic tenancies
-
Rent reviews
-
Pets
-
Grounds for possession
2. Audit Your Property Condition
Focus on:
-
Ventilation
-
Damp control
-
Heating
-
Modernisation
(South Manchester’s older stock will need proactive work)
3. Strengthen Documentation & Record Keeping
With Section 21 ending, evidence matters more than ever.
4. Plan an Annual Rent Review Strategy
This becomes crucial for maintaining yield.
5. Prepare to Register on the Property Portal
This will be mandatory.
6. Communicate Clearly With Tenants
Transparency reduces disputes, voids and builds long-term tenant loyalty.
How the Reforms Will Affect Didsbury, Chorlton & South Manchester
Each part of South Manchester will feel the changes differently:
-
Didsbury & West Didsbury: High competition, strong demand, premium rents for quality homes.
-
Chorlton: Long-term renters benefit from security; landlords must prioritise modernisation.
-
Withington & Fallowfield: Student and young professional markets must adapt to periodic tenancies.
-
Burnage & East Didsbury: Family renters gain stronger rights, reducing turnover.
Overall: Proactive landlords will benefit more than ever.
Key Takeaway
Good landlords who stay ahead of compliance will absolutely thrive. The reforms are designed to remove poor practice and not punish professional landlords.
Need Honest Advice on These Changes?
We help Manchester landlords stay compliant, profitable and protected.
If you’re a landlord in Manchester or South Manchester, we can support you with:
-
Tenancy agreement updates
-
Compliance checks
-
Rent review strategies
-
Fully managed services
-
Pre-2026 readiness planning
Please contact us – https://www.jaksandco.co.uk/contact-us/
