A survey of just over 1,000 tenants shows ell over a third having little to no knowledge about the Renters Rights Act.
On top of that, 88% have made no efforts to speak to their landlord or letting agent about how the Act might impact their tenancy and their rights.
Just a quarter of tenants (25%) surveyed describe themselves as “very familiar” with the Act, while more than a third (36%) say they are either aware of it by name alone, or not at all.
Some 88% have not sought information from other sources, such as solicitors, online resources, or tenant advocacy organisations.
Among the minority who have taken steps to better understand the legislation, specific questions are already beginning to emerge.
The most commonly raised issue relates to changes to tenancy structures, including the abolition of Assured Shorthold Tenancies, cited by 26% of respondents.
This is followed by questions around revised rent increase rules (21%) and strengthened legal obligations for property standards, including issues such as damp and mould (21%).
Additionally, 18% of those seeking advice say they have done so to better understand how the Act will impact pet ownership rights.
Some 60% of tenants say they feel confident in their understanding of how the Act will affect their tenancy. However, this means 40% still appear to be less aware or unaware.
While 44% of tenants report having no concerns about the changes, those who do express particular worries or confusion around rent increases (23%), as well as the possibility of shifts in landlord behaviour.
Around 17% expressed concern that the new regulatory landscape could lead to more frequent, intrusive, or stringent property inspections and increased oversight during their tenancy.
Potential concerns lie in whether or not landlords will now look to force evictions based on the most minor of infractions.
A spokesperson for Propoly, which commissioned the research, says: “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.”
