More than half of tenants say they are likely to challenge rent increases under the incoming Renters’ Rights Bill, according to new research by lettings agency group LRG.
LRG’s study finds that 53% of tenants would “likely” contest a rent rise, with 28% describing themselves as “very likely” to do so.
The findings come as the Renters’ Rights Bill progresses through Parliament, introducing reforms allowing tenants to appeal above-market rent increases through a new tribunal process.
LRG says tribunal pressure on this issue has been growing.
Across England, rent-related cases rose from 483 to 921 between 2019 and 2023, an increase of almost 90%. The Ministry of Justice has reported a total of 702,000 open tribunal cases by the end of 2024, with housing applications one of the fastest-growing categories. In Scotland, Housing and Property Chamber cases rose from 2,760 in 2021–22 to 4,271 in 2023–24, prompting calls for more resources to manage the caseload.
According to activist group Generation Rent, 899 rent challenges were submitted between April 2024 and March 2025 when a rent control system was in place — a sharp rise compared to just 106 cases in the previous period where open market rents were the benchmark. Although those most recent rent cap restrictions have now been lifted, the Scottish Government has announced plans for long-term rent control legislation by 2027, potentially linking rent increases to inflation plus 1%.
The LRG survey also shows an almost complete lack of confidence in the concept of a private rental sector Ombudsman, as pledged by the government and contained in the Renters Rights Bill. LRG says just 4% of landlords and 15% of tenants say they are very confident it will resolve disputes fairly.
Allison Thompson, national lettings managing director at LRG, comments: “The Renters’ Rights Bill represents a significant change for the private rented sector, but it’s important to recognise that not all tenants will be looking to challenge rent increases. Many already trust the process, especially where landlords have shown a track record of fair, market-aligned reviews. Our data reflects that.
“At the same time, we must be realistic. Reforms like this only work if they are clear and consistent. Without the right safeguards, we risk seeing the same issues that have emerged in Scotland: growing backlogs, rising disputes, and reduced supply. That’s why we believe it’s essential that the House of Lords’ proposed amendment, linking rent increases to recognised indices, is included in the final legislation. This would provide much-needed clarity and reassurance for landlords and tenants alike.
“With professional advice, good communication, and strong pricing discipline, landlords can remain fully in control of their tenancies. The new system shouldn’t be seen as a threat, but as a framework for fairness and for those already doing things well, there’s very little to change.”
