The majority of tenants in England remain unaware of the biggest overhaul of tenant protections in a generation, according to new research from the TDS Charitable Foundation.

A representative survey of more than 2,000 private renters – carried out shortly before the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act came into force in May – , found that 69% of respondents had either never heard of the legislation or were unsure what it meant for them.

Only 32% said they had heard of the Act and understood at least some of its implications.

The Renters’ Rights Act introduces significant changes to the private rented sector, including the abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, restrictions on the frequency of rent increases, and measures designed to prevent rental bidding wars.

Awareness challenge

The research also found that awareness was lowest among some of the groups considered most vulnerable to poor housing experiences.

Almost half – at 47% – of students surveyed said they had never heard of the Act, while awareness was also lower among lower-income tenants and those renting a bedsit or room in a shared property.

Despite the Act making it easier for tenants to challenge rent increases they believe are above market levels, 78% of renters said they were unaware of the tribunal responsible for hearing such cases.

The survey also suggests the reforms may have only a limited impact on pet ownership in rented homes, with only 14% of respondents saying they intended to seek permission to keep a pet as a result of the changes.

Dr Jennifer Harris, Head of Policy, Research and Social Impact at the TDS Charitable Foundation, said: “It is [therefore] concerning that, just before the Act came into force, most renters either had not heard of it or did not understand what it meant for them.

“Particularly worrying is the fact that awareness is lowest amongst some of the groups most likely to experience challenges in the private rented sector.

“While we welcome the Government’s efforts to improve awareness of the reforms, these findings show there is still a significant job to do.

“Government, landlords, letting agents, advice services and sector organisations all have a role to play in ensuring renters understand their rights, know how to enforce them and can fully benefit from the protections the Act is designed to provide.”