Renting in BH13 and BH14: How the 2025 Renters Rights Bill Will Shape the Market

Branksome Chine - Sea View

The coastal postcodes of BH13 and BH14 continue to be among the most desirable rental destinations on the South Coast. With their mix of waterfront living, excellent schools

Lilliput and Courthill First Schools and Baden-Powell and St Peters Junior School, and strong transport links, demand for homes in these areas consistently outpaces much of the country.

However, like the wider UK, our local rental market is entering a period of transition. Shifts in supply and demand, the rise of “accidental landlords,” and new legislation such as the Renters Rights Bill are reshaping the way tenancies are managed and experienced.

Current Market Conditions

Across the UK, rental growth is slowing. In July 2025, average rents were just 2.4% higher than a year earlier—the slowest rate of growth in four years. This reflects a cooling in demand and a modest rise in supply in many regions.

But BH13 and BH14 often buck national trends. Demand remains resilient here, particularly in the premium rental market, which helps sustain rental values. What is unique about our area, though, is the significant number of accidental landlords.

These are property owners who had not planned to become landlords but have done so due to circumstances—such as job relocations, inheritance, or difficulties selling in a slower sales market. While accidental landlords bring much-needed supply, they often have limited knowledge of property management, compliance, or tenancy law. This can create both opportunities and challenges within our local rental sector.

The Renters Rights Bill – Key Changes

The government’s Renters Rights Bill, now progressing through Parliament, is set to introduce the most significant reforms to the private rented sector in a generation. Key measures include:

• Stronger security for tenants – The abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions means tenants cannot be asked to leave without reason, giving them greater confidence to report housing issues.

• Structured notice periods – Landlords will need to provide four months’ notice and rely on reformed grounds for possession, creating a clearer framework for tenancy management.

• End of fixed terms – All existing assured shorthold tenancies will automatically convert to periodic agreements, changing the way rental contracts are structured.

The Accidental Landlord Challenge

In BH13 and BH14, where accidental landlords are common, these changes bring added pressure. Many:

• Have limited awareness of their legal responsibilities

• Underestimate property maintenance obligations

• Struggle with tenant vetting and day-to-day management

• Rely heavily on local letting agents for advice and support

This creates both risks and opportunities. Professional landlords and property managers who stay ahead of compliance are likely to benefit, while some accidental landlords may decide to leave the sector altogether.

Looking Ahead

The Renters Rights Bill sets out sweeping reforms, but much of the detail will be shaped through secondary legislation in the coming months. This gives both landlords and tenants time to adapt.

For BH13 and BH14, we expect a rental market that increasingly rewards professionalism, compliance, and high standards of management. While some landlords may exit, those who remain committed to best practice will continue to thrive in our highly desirable coastal community.

At Bevan Residential, we believe our neighbourhood is strongest when housing is fair, well-managed, and accessible. As changes unfold, we’re here to support landlords and tenants alike—helping you navigate this new chapter with confidence.