A large number of private renters are still unaware of the changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act, with many tenants unsure about how the new rules could affect them.
A survey carried out shortly before the legislation came into force found that 69% of private renters in England had either never heard of the Act or did not understand what it meant.
Only around a third of tenants surveyed said they were aware of the legislation and understood at least some of the changes it would bring.
Lack of awareness raises concerns
The research was commissioned by the TDS Charitable Foundation and involved more than 2,000 private renters across England.
The organisation warned that a lack of awareness could prevent tenants from making use of important protections introduced under the new legislation.
While the Renters’ Rights Act aims to strengthen tenant protections and improve standards within the private rented sector, these measures will only be effective if renters understand the rights available to them.
Vulnerable renters least informed
The survey found that awareness was particularly low among groups that may be more likely to experience difficulties in the rental market.
Students appeared to have the lowest level of awareness, with nearly half saying they had never heard of the Act.
Other groups with limited knowledge included lower-income renters and those living in bedsits or shared accommodation.
Experts have raised concerns that tenants who may need additional protection the most could be the least prepared to use the new rules.
Many renters unaware of rent increase protections
One of the key changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act allows tenants to challenge proposed rent increases if they believe they are above market levels.
However, the survey found that 78% of renters were unaware of the tribunal process available to review disputes over rent increases.
This suggests that many tenants may not know how to challenge decisions or seek support if they believe a proposed increase is unfair.
Limited impact expected on pet ownership
The survey also looked at another major change under the Act: making it easier for tenants to request permission to keep pets in rented properties.
Despite the reform, only 14% of renters said they planned to ask for permission to keep a pet because of the new rules.
This suggests the change may not immediately result in a significant rise in pet ownership among private renters.
Calls for greater education
Dr Jennifer Harris from the TDS Charitable Foundation said the Renters’ Rights Act represents a major change for tenants and could provide stronger protections across the private rented sector.
However, she highlighted that these benefits depend on renters knowing what rights they have and understanding how to use them.
She said the low awareness levels before the legislation came into effect show there is still significant work needed to educate tenants.
The responsibility for improving awareness will likely fall on a range of organisations, including the government, landlords, letting agents, advice services and housing groups.
Without greater understanding, many renters may miss out on protections that the new legislation was designed to provide.
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