Do tenants even know about the Renters Rights Act?
Summary
A survey commissioned by the TDS Charitable Foundation found that most private renters in England were unaware of, or did not understand, the Renters Rights Act shortly before its implementation. The findings suggest that key protections, including the ability to challenge above-market rent increases, may be underused unless awareness improves.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors involved in the private rented sector should note that tenant awareness of new rights may affect dispute patterns, rent challenge activity and landlord-tenant interactions. The article also highlights a need for clearer communication from landlords, letting agents and advice services as the reforms bed in.
Key points
- 69% of private sector tenants in England had never heard of the Act or were unsure what it meant.
- Only 32% said they had heard of it and understood at least some of its implications.
- Awareness was especially low among students, low-income tenants and those in bedsits or shared houses.
- 78% of renters were unaware of the Tribunal used to challenge proposed rent increases.
- The survey suggests the reforms may not significantly increase pet ownership among renters.
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