The new Renters’ Rights will be changing many things for both renters and landlords
The new Renters’ Rights Act took effect at the beginning of May, bringing with it a range of changes affecting both tenants and landlords as the Government seeks to establish a ‘fairer’ rental market. However, some experts have warned that a lacking awareness surrounding these changes could potentially leave renters worse off than before.
Housing law specialist Natalie Peacock outlined two key steps tenants should take as the new legislation comes into effect to “check their rights” and avoid being left at a disadvantage. She explained: “For years, there have been issues across the private rental sector, with landlords feeling restricted and tenants facing insecurity, poor housing standards and difficulty challenging unfair treatment.
“The Renters’ Rights Act is designed to create a fairer and more balanced system for everyone involved.”
Check your agreement
The Rogers and Norton expert urged renters to carefully scrutinise their tenancy agreements, even those that were in place prior to the rule changes taking effect, and particularly if you are embarking on a new tenancy now that the legislation is in force.
She said: “In a competitive market, it’s easy to rush into signing an agreement, but that’s where disputes often arise.
“With the new legislation in place, some agreements may not reflect the updated rules, so it’s important to check for clauses around fixed terms and notice periods.”
Furthermore, affected landlords must provide existing tenants with an information sheet about the Renters’ Rights Act this month. Failure to do so could result in a fine worth thousands of pounds according to Government Guidance.
Maintain payment records
Natalie urged renters to maintain detailed records of rent payments to prevent disputes. She explained that with section 21s being abolished, this could prove particularly valuable for tenants facing eviction under specific circumstances.
The expert said: “With no-fault evictions being removed, landlords may rely more on rent arrears as a route to possession. Having proper records and receipts can help protect tenants if any disagreements arise.”
She also clarified a widespread misunderstanding: “The Act doesn’t mean landlords can’t evict tenants at all. It simply ensures there must be a valid reason, rather than leaving renters living under constant threat of eviction.”
The Act has scrapped Section 21 notices, commonly referred to as ‘no-fault’ evictions. This provision enabled landlords to serve notice to tenants at virtually any point, granting them merely two months to vacate, without requiring any justification for the eviction.
Natalie said: “I regularly see renters caught off guard, suddenly having to find somewhere new, cover unexpected moving costs and, in some cases, relocate away from work or their children’s schools.
“This also places pressure on local authorities, as many tenants who lose their homes end up seeking support from councils. Removing no-fault evictions not only protects renters but could also help relieve pressure on social housing.”
