A significant proportion of tenants remain unclear about the implications of the Renters’ Rights Act despite the legislation introducing some of the biggest changes to the private rented sector in decades, according to new research from Propoly.
The survey of 1,050 UK tenants found that 36% have little to no understanding of the legislation, while 88% have not spoken to their landlord or letting agent about how the reforms could affect their tenancy.
The findings suggest a substantial communication gap remains between the introduction of the legislation and tenant awareness of the new rules and protections.
Just one in four tenants surveyed described themselves as “very familiar” with the Renters’ Rights Act, despite the reforms fundamentally reshaping areas including tenancy structures, rent increases and property standards.
ASSURED SHORTHOLD TENANCIES
The research also found that the vast majority of tenants have not sought guidance from other sources such as solicitors, online information services or tenant advocacy groups.
Among those who have attempted to better understand the legislation, the most common concerns relate to the abolition of Assured Shorthold Tenancies, changes to rent increase rules and strengthened obligations around property conditions, including damp and mould.
Questions surrounding pet ownership rights under the reforms have also emerged as a key area of interest.
While 60% of tenants said they feel confident about how the changes will affect them, four in 10 admitted they still lack confidence or clarity.
Concerns among tenants include uncertainty around future rent increases and fears that landlords may increase property inspections or look to enforce stricter tenancy conditions under the new regulatory framework.
Propoly said the findings highlight the importance of clearer communication from landlords, letting agents and the wider industry as the sector adapts to the reforms.
BIG MOMENT
Sim Sekhon (main picture, inset), Group Chief Executive Officer at Propoly, says: “The Renters’ Rights Act represents a significant moment for the lettings sector, and its success will largely depend on how well tenants understand and engage with it.
“If tenants aren’t aware of their rights, they are far less likely to raise issues with their letting agents or landlords, or to challenge situations where those rights may not be upheld. In many ways, awareness is the mechanism that turns policy into real, lived improvement.
“The good news is that tenants are very much in favour of the Act, and excited to enjoy greater security and protections in their home, so when agents and landlords do communicate the changes to them, it is almost universally well received.”
