More than a third of renters also sceptical of its enactment
More than 80% of tenants remain unaware of the Renters (Reform) Bill and its contents, according to results of a survey, highlighting a significant gap in awareness about upcoming changes in the private rented sector.
Conducted by the TDS Charitable Foundation, the study involved over 2,000 participants and aimed to shed light on the understanding of housing rights and obligations among tenants.
The Renters (Reform) Bill introduces several critical changes, including the abolition of ‘no fault’ evictions under section 21, the establishment of a new decent homes standard for the private rented sector, and the creation of a new ombudsman for private landlords.
Despite these substantial changes, the TDS survey found that awareness among tenants has only increased by 27% in the last year, leaving a vast majority, 83%, still in the dark about the bill’s proposals.
Interestingly, 69% of the respondents believe that reforms in the private rented sector are much needed. Once informed about the specifics of the bill, 61% expressed that the legislation would enhance tenant rights.
The removal of section 21 evictions, in particular, was seen positively by 60% of those surveyed, associating it with greater security and stability. Additionally, 40% stated that this change would make them more likely to engage with the new ombudsman service.
However, there remains a degree of scepticism, with 8% not convinced that the removal of section 21 evictions would lead to increased stability, and 32% remaining undecided.
The survey also uncovered a sense of pessimism about the bill’s implementation and its potential impact, with 42% of tenants doubting it would significantly alter the sector, and 37% sceptical of its enactment.
“The bill represents the biggest set of changes to the rental market for over 30 years,” said Jennifer Harris, head of policy and research at TDS Group. “Given this, it is worrying that so many tenants are unaware of what it is and what it seeks to achieve.
“It is vital that tenants feel able to challenge the minority of landlords failing to provide safe housing or a good enough service. This can only be achieved by ensuring renters understand the changes being made and are confident that they will help them to do so.
“The TDS Foundation will continue to work to ensure tenants fully understand and make use of their rights to ensure the Bill works.”
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