Rental stock drops as Renters Rights Act kicks in
Summary
Rightmove data indicates that rental supply fell below the previous year’s level in Q2 2026 for the first time in four years, with the total number of homes to rent now 1% lower year on year. The article links the shift to the implementation of the Renters Rights Act, while noting that tenant competition has eased from recent peaks and regional rental conditions remain uneven.
Why it matters
Residential surveyors involved in valuation, investment, and rental market reporting need to track changes in supply, demand, and rent growth as these affect asset performance and market evidence. The introduction of the Renters Rights Act may also influence landlord behaviour, listing volumes, and local market dynamics relevant to instructions and advice.
Key points
- Rental stock fell below the prior year’s level in Q2 2026 for the first time in four years.
- The decline appears to be driven mainly by fewer new listings rather than faster lettings.
- Average tenant enquiries per property have eased to 10, down from 11 a year ago and 22 at the 2022 peak.
- Regional conditions vary, with stronger annual rent growth in the North East and North West than in southern and eastern regions.
- Average advertised rents outside London rose 1.9% in Q2 to a record £1,397 pcm.
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