Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.

Most Tenants Unaware of Renters’ Rights Act, TDS Research Finds

A majority of private renters in England remain unaware of the Renters’ Rights Act, according to new research from the TDS Charitable Foundation. The survey, conducted with over 2,000 private renters before the Act’s first phase came into force in May, found that 69% of respondents had either never heard of the legislation or were unsure what it meant for them.

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces major changes to the private rented sector, including the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, restrictions on how often rent can be increased, and measures to prevent rental bidding wars. Despite these significant reforms, only 32% of surveyed tenants said they had heard of the Act and understood at least some of its implications.

Awareness Gaps Among Vulnerable Groups

The research highlighted that awareness of the Act was particularly low among groups considered most vulnerable to poor housing experiences. Among students, 47% said they had never heard of the Act. Awareness was also lower among lower-income tenants and those renting a bedsit or a room in a shared property.

Although the Act makes it easier for tenants to challenge rent increases they believe are above market levels, 78% of renters surveyed said they were unaware of the tribunal responsible for handling such cases. The survey also indicated that the reforms may have limited impact on pet ownership in rented homes, with only 14% of respondents saying they intended to seek permission to keep a pet as a result of the changes.

The findings suggest that there is still significant work to be done to ensure tenants are informed about their rights and the protections available to them under the new legislation. The report notes that government, landlords, letting agents, advice services, and sector organisations all have a role to play in improving awareness and understanding among renters.