Renters’ Rights Act opens the door for landlords to get smart

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has attracted widespread attention for the changes it brings for tenants. Less discussed, however, is the opportunity it creates for private and social landlords to modernise their properties and future-proof their portfolios.

Described by government as the biggest shake-up of residential lettings in a generation, the Act primarily strengthens tenant protections. But for England’s 2.3 million landlords, it also places a renewed emphasis on property quality—prompting a rethink of how homes are managed, maintained and upgraded.

A renewed focus on property standards

A central pillar of the Act is the extension of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector. This aims to ensure safer, healthier and better-value homes, alongside the application of Awaab’s Law, which sets clear legal expectations for tackling hazards such as damp and mould.

For landlords, this shifts the focus toward prevention rather than remediation. Investment in energy-efficient, controllable heating systems can play a key role—particularly when combined with physical upgrades such as improved insulation, windows and doors.

Smart heating as a practical solution

Modern programmable heating systems allow tenants to manage comfort more effectively while helping landlords improve energy performance and compliance.

For example, IMI Heatmiser smart room thermostats provide precise, room-by-room control across a wide range of heating systems, including heat pumps, electric heating and boilers. Available in wired and wireless formats, the neo system connects via RF to the neoHub for reliable whole-home performance. Control can be managed through the neoApp, or integrated with leading smart home platforms such as Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit and IFTTT.

Time to plan, funding to support investment

While landlords may have concerns about upfront costs, the current rollout of the Act provides both time and support to plan effectively.

The Act is not yet fully in force. Although it received Royal Assent in October 2025, further regulations are required before full implementation—giving landlords and industry bodies time to prepare and engage.
Standards are still under consultation. Reform of the Decent Homes Standard is ongoing, including proposals around minimum energy efficiency requirements. Groups such as the National Housing Federation are advocating for homes to reach EPC C by 2030.
Funding and grants are available. Schemes such as the Home Upgrade Grant, Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) and the Great British Insulation Scheme can help offset investment costs.

Under current timelines, new energy standards may not be enforceable in the private rented sector until the mid-2030s—providing further breathing space for staged upgrades.

Compliance, confidence and future demand

The Act also introduces a Private Rented Sector Database, designed to help landlords understand their obligations and demonstrate compliance. While this supports responsible landlords, it also removes any excuse for inaction.

At the same time, the smart home market continues to mature. Wi-Fi thermostat adoption is accelerating globally, driven by rising energy costs, flexible working patterns and the expectations of digitally native tenants. For landlords, this reduces the risk of investing in proven, widely adopted technology.

Future-proofing rental properties

By aligning property upgrades with the requirements of the Renters’ Rights Act, landlords have an opportunity to do more than comply. Smart heating and energy management can improve tenant satisfaction, protect asset value and ensure homes remain fit for the future.

Modernisation is no longer optional—it’s a strategic advantage.