Almost seven in 10 private renters in England are unaware of, or do not understand, the Renters’ Rights Act, despite it introducing the most significant reforms to the private rented sector in decades, according to new research.
The survey of more than 2,000 private renters, commissioned by the TDS Charitable Foundation shortly before the legislation began to be implemented on 1 May, found that 69% had either never heard of the Act or were unsure what it meant. Just 32% said they were aware of the legislation and understood at least some of its implications.
The findings suggest many tenants may not be aware of new legal protections introduced under the Act, including the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, restrictions on rent increases and measures designed to prevent rental bidding wars.
Awareness was lowest among several groups, including students, low-income renters and people living in bedsits or shared accommodation. Nearly half (47%) of students surveyed said they had never heard of the legislation.
The research also found limited awareness of the tribunal process available to tenants challenging above-market rent increases. Almost four in five respondents (78%) said they were unaware of the tribunal responsible for hearing such cases.
The survey suggests that one of the Act’s other headline measures may have a more limited impact. Just 14% of renters said they intended to seek permission to keep a pet as a result of the reforms.
Dr Jennifer Harris, head of policy, research and social impact at the TDS Charitable Foundation, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act represents an historic turning point for renters and has the potential to significantly strengthen protections across the private rented sector.
“However, rights only make a difference if people know they exist and understand how to use them.
“It is therefore concerning that, just before the Act came into force, most renters either had not heard of it or did not understand what it meant for them.
“Particularly worrying is the fact that awareness is lowest amongst some of the groups most likely to experience challenges in the private rented sector.
“Whilst we welcome the government’s efforts to improve awareness of the reforms, these findings show there is still a significant job to do.
“Government, landlords, letting agents, advice services and sector organisations all have a role to play in ensuring renters understand their rights, know how to enforce them and can fully benefit from the protections the Act is designed to provide.”
