With sweeping reforms underway in the private rented sector, one of the biggest upcoming changes for landlords is the introduction of the new Private Renters’ Ombudsman — a central part of the Renters’ Reform Bill and the new Renters’ Rights Act. This change is designed to make dispute resolution easier, quicker, and less costly for both tenants and landlords.
Here’s what you need to know and how to stay compliant.
Why a New Ombudsman?
Until now, tenants could only raise complaints against letting agents through existing redress schemes — The Property Ombudsman and the Property Redress Scheme. There was no direct route for tenants to complain about landlords themselves.
The government’s aim is to:
- Offer tenants a clearer, fairer route to resolve disputes
- Reduce reliance on the court system
- Improve overall standards in the private rented sector
The new Ombudsman will apply to all private landlords, regardless of whether you self‑manage or use a letting agent.
Is Joining the Ombudsman Mandatory?
Yes — joining the scheme will become a legal requirement.
All private landlords must register, even if they use a managing agent.
Failure to register could result in:
- Fines starting at £7,000, rising to £40,000 for ongoing breaches
- Potential criminal prosecution for repeated non‑compliance
Even though letting agents themselves won’t join this new Ombudsman, agents will be penalised if they manage properties for landlords who haven’t enrolled, so compliance will be taken seriously across the sector.
What Does the Ombudsman Actually Do?
Think of it as a fair, impartial complaints resolution service tailored specifically for the landlord–tenant relationship.
The Ombudsman will be empowered to:
- Investigate tenant complaints
- Issue binding decisions
- Enforce remedial actions, which may include compensation or required improvements
- Provide an alternative to costly and lengthy legal processes
This means disputes can be resolved quickly and at no cost to tenants — and with far less hassle for landlords than court proceedings.
What Types of Complaints Might Go Through the Ombudsman?
The scheme is expected to handle issues such as:
- Repairs and maintenance disputes
- Allegations of poor communication or unresponsiveness
- Complaints about the condition or management of the property
- Deposit disputes not covered under existing schemes
- Issues relating to landlord behaviour
Having a clear and transparent complaints route will give tenants confidence — and give landlords a structured process to resolve issues before they escalate.
What Does This Mean for Our Landlords?
At Homefinders, we already prioritise:
- Fast response times
- Strong record‑keeping
- Clear communication with tenants
- Fully compliant tenancy documentation
This means our managed landlords will move into the new regime with minimal disruption.
If you self-manage, now is the time to:
- Review your processes — communication, repairs, and documentation
- Ensure compliance across all legal obligations
- Prepare to register with the Ombudsman once the portal opens
- Stay alert to updates as timelines are confirmed
We will keep every landlord updated as soon as official registration dates are released.
When Will the Ombudsman Launch?
The Government has confirmed plans to move ahead, and implementation is tied closely to the broader Renters’ Rights Act timeline. While the final start date isn’t yet confirmed, preparation is essential to avoid penalties.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of the Private Renters’ Ombudsman is one of the most significant changes in the rental landscape in decades. While the intention is to improve tenant protection, the scheme also provides landlords with a structured, predictable, and low‑stress method of resolving disputes.
As always, Homefinders will:
- Guide our landlords through the changes
- Ensure compliance
- Manage communication and disputes effectively
If you have any questions, want to discuss how this affects your portfolio, or would like support transitioning to full management, we’re here to help.