Despite coming into force at the beginning of this month, most tenants have yet to discuss changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act with their landlords.
If you’re currently renting in the UK, you may have received an email from your lettings agent or landlord about the new Renters’ Rights Act. However, new research from Propoly shows many tenants have not received such communication.
The survey, which included 1,050 UK tenants, found 36% have little to no knowledge of the Act.
Meanwhile, 88% reported having not spoken to their landlord or letting agent about how the changes could affect their tenancy.
Just a quarter of respondents (25%) described themselves as ‘very familiar’ with the legislation, while more than a third said they’re either aware of it by name only or not at all.
Among those who have looked into the reforms – details of which can be found in full here – the most common area of interest was changes to tenancy structures, including the abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions.
Questions about rent increases were raised by 21% of respondents, while a similar proportion highlighted concerns around legal obligations for property standards, including issues such as damp and mould.
A further 18% said they had sought information on how the changes could affect pet ownership.
On a more positive note, 60% of tenants said they felt confident in their understanding of how the Act will impact their tenancy.
Forty forty per cent of respondents also reported no concerns about the reforms.
Sim Sekhon, group chief executive at Propoly, said if the legislation is to be successful, more awareness needs to be spread.
‘The Renters’ Rights Act represents a significant moment for the lettings sector, and its success will largely depend on how well tenants understand and engage with it,’ Sekhon said. ‘If tenants aren’t aware of their rights, they are far less likely to raise issues with their letting agents or landlords, or to challenge situations where those rights may not be upheld.’
He added: ‘The good news is that tenants are very much in favour of the Act, and excited to enjoy greater security and protections in their home, so when agents and landlords do communicate the changes to them, it is almost universally well received.’
Image: Jakub Żerdzicki/UnSplash
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