Landlords across England are reportedly moving quickly to evict tenants and increase rents before new rental regulations come into effect on 1 May under the Renters’ Rights Act. The upcoming reforms are set to significantly strengthen tenant protections, marking one of the biggest shifts in renting rules in years.
The new law will restrict landlords from evicting tenants without a valid reason, such as selling the property, and will also remove fixed-term tenancy agreements. Instead, tenants will be able to leave with two months’ notice, giving them greater flexibility and security.
The changes will also make it easier for renters to challenge poor housing conditions and excessive rent increases without fear of eviction in retaliation.
Reports of rising evictions and rent increases
Despite the reforms not yet being in force, there are already signs of disruption in the rental market. A survey of 4,500 tenants suggests that more than one in ten renters in England have either been evicted or received notice of eviction since the legislation was approved.
In London, the figure is slightly higher, highlighting increased pressure in the capital’s rental market.
At the same time, around three in ten tenants who have stayed in the same home since November have experienced a rent increase during this period.
Reasons behind landlord action
Among tenants who have been evicted, many reported that landlords cited plans to sell the property as the main reason. However, a notable proportion said no reason was provided at all, while some indicated that regulatory changes influenced their landlord’s decision.
This suggests that some landlords may be acting early in anticipation of stricter rules once the Renters’ Rights Act takes effect.
Concerns over market disruption
Industry figures have warned that the period leading up to the reforms is creating uncertainty in the rental sector. Some landlords are reportedly choosing to regain possession of properties or increase rents before new restrictions limit their flexibility.
There are concerns that this behaviour may be placing additional pressure on tenants in the short term, even though the reforms are intended to improve fairness in the long run.
Tenant protections under the new law
Once implemented, the Renters’ Rights Act will bring an end to so-called “no-fault” evictions and restrict landlords from requiring large upfront rent payments. It will also prevent bidding wars by ensuring landlords cannot accept offers above the advertised rent.
These measures are designed to create a more balanced rental market, where tenants have greater security and clearer rights.
Possible impact on rental supply
Despite the intended benefits for tenants, there are concerns that some landlords may choose to exit the market altogether. This could reduce the number of available rental homes in the short term.
Estimates suggest that a significant number of rental properties could be lost if landlords decide to sell up or stop letting their homes.
Mixed outlook for the rental sector
While the reforms are widely viewed as a major improvement in tenant protection, the transition period is expected to remain unstable. Some landlords are likely to adjust their behaviour ahead of the changes, which may continue to affect rents and availability in certain areas.
Overall, the rental market appears to be entering a period of adjustment as it prepares for one of the most significant legislative updates in recent years.
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