"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"
- Jennifer Harris - TDS Group
A new survey of over 2,000 private renters conducted by the TDS Charitable Foundation, has revealed that a worryingly high 87% of tenants still remain unaware of the Renters (Reform) Bill and its proposals - despite an increase in awareness of the proposed reforms over the last 12 months and 69% of respondents saying that reform of the sector was long overdue.
The Bill contains key measures such as ending ‘no fault’ section 21 evictions, developing a new decent homes standard for the private rented sector and creating a new Ombudsman for private landlords.
Following an explanation of the details of the Bill, 61% agreed that it will improve tenant rights.
On the proposed removal of section 21 evictions, 60% agreed that this would provide more security and stability, and 40% said it would make them more inclined to engage with the new Ombudsman for private landlords.
However, 8% of tenants disagreed that removing section 21 would contribute to a feeling of increased stability, and an additional 32% were undecided on this matter.
A significant portion of tenants were pessimistic about whether the reforms would be implemented or bring about tangible change. 42% of respondents said the Bill would change very little about the sector, and 37% said they do not believe it will be implemented.
Dr Jennifer Harris, Head of Policy and Research at TDS Group said: “The Bill represents the biggest set of changes to the rental market for over 30 years. 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."
