More than 120 landlords convened at the Corn Exchange in Witney to hear details about the Renters’ Rights Act.

The session, titled West Oxfordshire Landlord Event: Get Renters’ Rights Act Ready, was organised by estate and lettings firm Parkers Properties and aimed to help property owners understand the new legislation.

Landlords are facing the biggest overhaul in the private rental sector for almost 40 years, with the changes due to take effect from May 1.

Brendan Kay, managing director at Parkers, said the turnout exceeded expectations and was more than double what the company had previously seen at similar landlord information events.

This highlights the significant uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act and the additional compliance obligations being placed on landlords.

The team walked attendees through the main practicalities of the legislation and provided guidance to help them adapt and position their property portfolios favourably.

Questions focused on several key areas including financial penalties, rent repayment orders, energy performance standards and rules relating to pets.

The hour-long presentation, delivered by Mr Kay alongside associate director Joy Henning and head of property management Katy McCall, covered the essential elements of the new law, representing the most substantial reform in the rental market for many years.

Mr Kay added that the company was delighted to welcome local solicitors, financial advisers and a representative from West Oxfordshire District Council for the evening, who could address further queries from attendees.

Key changes include the shift to rolling periodic tenancies, the abolition of Section 21 no-fault evictions, and stricter documentation requirements.

The legislation also outlaws rental bidding wars, restricts rent increases, and prevents discrimination against tenants on benefits or with children.

Landlords can no longer unreasonably reject pets.

Enforcement will be strengthened, with increased fines and civil penalties starting at £7,000 and rising to as much as £40,000 for breaches.

The presentation additionally addressed other updates, including the rollout of Making Tax Digital on April 6, updated energy efficiency requirements and a local market update for West Oxfordshire.

After the briefing, attendees had the opportunity to ask questions, with some arranging subsequent tenancy health checks with Parkers.

Parkers has announced that a follow-up webinar will be held once the Act is in force and its effects become clearer.

The company operates branches in Witney and Eynsham.