Rightmove launches rent review tool for Renters Rights Act compliance

Rightmove launches rent review tool for Renters Rights Act compliance

Rightmove has introduced new rent review functionality within its Tenancy Manager platform to help letting agents handle rent increases efficiently under the Renters Rights Act changes.

Rightmove’s new feature enables agents to create and serve Section 13 rent increase notices directly from tenancy records, aiming to reduce administrative burden and improve compliance. This update is part of the Lead to Keys suite, which integrates advertising, referencing, and tenancy progression tools.

Rightmove’s rent review feature and its role in tenancy management

The new rent review capability is designed to assist letting agents in managing rent increases following the implementation of the Renters Rights Act, which has introduced more stringent rules around rent changes. Agents can now generate and serve a Section 13 notice—a formal document used to propose a rent increase—within the Tenancy Manager system, eliminating the need to switch between different platforms or manual paperwork.

This integration keeps all tenancy information in one place, helping agents maintain accurate records and ensuring that rent reviews comply with legal requirements. By automating part of the process, the tool aims to reduce errors and delays, which are common challenges when handling rent adjustments under new legislation.

Rightmove describes this addition as the latest enhancement to its Lead to Keys suite, a comprehensive solution that covers the entire tenancy lifecycle from advertising properties to managing tenant references and tenancy progression. The suite also recently added landlord PEPs and sanctions checks and digital ID verification for tenants, further streamlining compliance and tenant vetting.

Context of the Renters Rights Act and its impact on rent reviews

The Renters Rights Act has introduced significant changes to how rent increases must be handled in the private rented sector. It places greater emphasis on transparency and tenant protections, requiring landlords and agents to follow stricter procedures when proposing rent rises. This includes serving appropriate notices and providing clear communication to tenants.

For letting agents, these changes have increased the administrative workload and the risk of non-compliance, which can lead to disputes or legal challenges. The introduction of digital tools like Rightmove’s rent review functionality responds to these challenges by offering a more structured and efficient way to manage rent increase notices.

While the Act aims to improve tenant security and fairness, it also demands that agents and landlords adapt their processes and record-keeping to meet the new standards. This has made integrated property management platforms more valuable, as they can help ensure that all steps are documented and compliant.

Practical implications for landlords and letting agents

For small portfolio landlords and letting agents, the Rightmove rent review tool offers a practical way to handle rent increases without adding complexity. By using a single platform to manage tenancy progression and rent reviews, agents can reduce the risk of errors such as incorrect notice periods or incomplete documentation.

Landlords benefit from agents being able to serve legally compliant rent increase notices promptly, which can help maintain good tenant relationships and avoid disputes. Agents can also track rent review history within the tenancy record, providing a clear audit trail if questions arise.

However, agents must ensure they understand the specific legal requirements of the Renters Rights Act, including notice periods and grounds for rent increases, as the tool facilitates the process but does not replace legal knowledge. Checking current official guidance remains essential.

Remaining uncertainties and considerations

While Rightmove’s new functionality addresses a key administrative challenge, some aspects of the Renters Rights Act and its enforcement remain evolving. For example, how local authorities or tribunals will interpret compliance in borderline cases is not fully settled. Agents should monitor regulatory updates and case law to stay informed.

There may also be further enhancements to property management platforms as the sector adjusts to the Act. The effectiveness of digital tools depends on their accuracy and the user’s understanding of the legal framework. Training and careful use of such tools are advisable to avoid unintended breaches.

Additionally, the Renters Rights Act’s impact on tenant behaviour and market dynamics continues to develop, which could influence how rent reviews are approached. Agents and landlords should remain flexible and responsive to changes in tenant expectations and regulatory guidance.

What landlords and agents should do now

Landlords and letting agents should review their current rent review procedures and consider adopting integrated digital tools like Rightmove’s Tenancy Manager to streamline compliance. Ensuring that all rent increase notices are served correctly and recorded accurately is vital under the Renters Rights Act.

Agents should also keep abreast of updates to the Lead to Keys suite and similar platforms, as ongoing improvements may further reduce administrative burdens. Regular training on the Renters Rights Act and its practical application will help avoid costly mistakes.

It is advisable to review tenancy agreements and communication templates to ensure they align with the new legal requirements. Maintaining clear records of all rent review activity will support compliance and provide evidence if disputes arise.

Supporting landlords and agents through compliance challenges

The Landlord Association (TLA) offers resources and support to help members manage the complexities introduced by the Renters Rights Act. TLA membership provides access to up-to-date compliance information, practical guides, and document templates tailored for rent review processes.

TLA is currently developing ORBIT, a property management and compliance platform in BETA testing, designed to help landlords and letting agents organise tenancy records, monitor regulatory changes, and keep evidence of compliance activities. ORBIT aims to assist with recording rent review notices, managing tenancy progression, and maintaining documentation in one place, complementing tools like Rightmove’s Tenancy Manager.

Members can explore TLA’s compliance resources and consider ORBIT BETA access to better prepare for ongoing regulatory changes and reduce administrative risks associated with rent reviews and other tenancy management tasks.

Looking ahead, the integration of digital solutions will likely become increasingly important for landlords and agents adapting to evolving rental legislation. Staying informed and using available tools will be crucial for effective property management.

Sources: Letting Agent Today