The Renters’ Rights Bill, which recently passed through the UK House of Commons, marks the biggest shift in private renting in a generation. It promises stronger protections, fairer tenancies, and higher living standards for millions of renters.
But beneath the headlines about “no-fault evictions” and much-needed rent caps, lies a deeper question: What does this mean for how rental homes are designed, furnished, and experienced?
As the CEO and Co-Founder of Poppy - a rental marketplace for quality, circular furniture, Arthur Ellis Hancock sees this Bill as a turning point. He says "It’s not just about policy"; it’s about how "we create homes that genuinely improve people’s lives". Read on for our take on what this bill means for the future of renting comfortable homes.
1. From short stays to real homes
Section 21 evictions abolished and rolling tenancies replacing fixed terms. That changes everything about how people relate to their homes. Less chance of eviction means greater stability and freedom to create a desired home.
At Poppy, we're designing for that future: furniture built to endure, materials that age well, and spaces that feel like home from day one.
2. The Decent Homes Standard raises the bar
The Bill extends the Decent Homes Standard to the private rental sector for the first time. That means every home must be safe, warm, and well-maintained not just structurally sound.
At Poppy, we see this as an opportunity. A well-furnished, well-maintained home isn’t just about ticking boxes, it drives retention, satisfaction, and long-term value.
Four design upgrades that make the biggest difference:
- Better lighting for wellbeing and productivity
- Durable, easy-to-clean finishes
- Smarter storage and modular layouts
- Energy efficient furniture and materials
The homes that exceed these new standards will become the homes tenants actively seek out.
3. Pets, personality, and belonging
One of the most superb changes in the Renters’ Rights Bill is the new right for tenants to request a pet, which landlords can’t unreasonably refuse.
Designing for real life means creating spaces where people (and their pets) can truly feel at home. That includes:
- Pet-friendly fabrics and flooring
- Adaptable spaces tenants can personalise
- Robust furniture designed for active homes
Renting standards are evolving and homes must meet them on a level playing field.
4. The future of renting is comfort
The Renters’ Rights Bill is more than regulation; it’s a signal of changing expectations. Renters want and deserve homes that reflect how they live, work, and feel.
We can help landlords meet standards and help tenants love where they live.
Because when interiors are well-designed, and experiences are fair and transparent, renting can finally feel like home.