On 1st May 2026, significant parts of the Renters’ Rights Act came into effect, changing how landlords and letting agents work with their tenants. One part that is still being implemented, however, is the housing ombudsman scheme.
Many of the changes the Renters’ Rights Act has brought in were the subject of years of discussion, debate and discourse, with landlords either opting to meet the new standards required by the legal framework, have sold their homes or are working with experienced agents.
However, the Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman part of the law has yet to be implemented, and the expectation is that it will come into effect at some point in 2028.
Despite this, there are ways in which you can prepare for its implementation ahead of time, as well as what you should expect from the new scheme as soon as it is brought into effect.
With that in mind, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the landlord ombudsman and how we can help you get ready for it.
What Is The Landlord Ombudsman Scheme?
An ombudsman is any official mediator who works on behalf of people or organisations to
resolve complaints, and a landlord ombudsman works on behalf of either tenants, landlords or both to mediate disputes and provide binding resolutions.
Already a legal requirement for housing associations and local authorities, with a similar property redress scheme for letting agents, landlords will need to belong to the Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman service once the scheme is in place.
Why Is The Landlord Ombudsman Scheme Being Implemented?
The aim of having an ombudsman is to provide tenants with a safe, supportive way to make complaints about their landlord and seek housing advice without resorting to the legal system or risking retribution.
Other parts of the Renters’ Rights Act, such as the removal of “no fault” evictions, were also developed in that mind, but this process is meant to be fairer, more equitable and less adversarial.
The benefit to landlords, besides avoiding the courts, is that there is clarity surrounding what the responsibilities of a landlord or a tenant are to each other, and, like other arbitration and mediation services, will allow for a more constructive discussion which avoids the courts.
It also speeds up the process, avoiding potentially months of bitter legal disputes and both tenants and landlords being left in limbo.
What Are The Implications For Landlords?
Much like how other parts of the Renters’ Rights Act fundamentally change the relationship between landlords and tenants, the landlord ombudsman would change how complaints are managed significantly.
Unlike previous systems which are either entirely based on mutual agreement or court order, the ombudsman could make decisions which are legally binding, with potential civil penalties for non-compliance.
How Will Letting Agents Help You Prepare?
- They will keep you informed about the latest developments in the law, any new requirements and remind you to register for the scheme.
- They will help you evaluate how much responsibility you are undertaking.
- They will provide clear complaint handling procedures to help both you and your tenants.
- They will offer extra support if you are struggling with maintaining compliance.
