Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.
Record Number of Landlords Face Tribunal Over Rent Rises After Legal Changes
Rental disputes reaching property tribunals have climbed to a record high following the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act, according to analysis by Hamptons. In July, property tribunals made 166 market rent decisions, nearly four times the 44 decisions made in the same month last year.
The data shows that tenants initiated 60% of the tribunal cases in July, after the Renters’ Rights Act came into force at the beginning of May. The remaining cases were lodged before the legislation took effect. The monthly average for tribunal decisions was 42 in the 12 months to May 2026, but this rose to 109 in May and 129 in June.
The Renters’ Rights Act abolished Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, which previously allowed landlords to regain possession without establishing specific grounds. Some tenants had been reluctant to challenge proposed rent increases due to concerns about receiving a Section 21 notice. The Act also changed the tribunal process, so if a tribunal approves a landlord’s proposed rent, the tenant now pays the higher amount from the date of the decision, rather than having the increase backdated to the application date.
Legal experts have noted that the Act has shifted the balance of power towards tenants, reducing the risks for those who wish to contest rent increases. Landlords are now required to provide robust evidence of market rent, including comparable local lettings, property condition, location, amenities, and recent rental transactions. Maintaining a clear audit trail and strict compliance with the statutory section 13 process is now essential.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has previously raised concerns about the additional pressure the Renters’ Rights Act could place on courts and tribunals. Despite the increase in cases, tribunals are reportedly reaching decisions more quickly.
These developments are particularly relevant for letting agents and inventory clerks, who may see increased scrutiny of rent review decisions and a greater need for detailed documentation and evidence in support of proposed rent increases.
Source: Property Industry Eye