Renters’ Rights Act prompts backlash from Dorset landlords

Several landlords in Dorset have hit out at the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force, describing it as a “sledgehammer to crack a nut”.

Speaking to the Bournemouth Daily Echo, landlords raised concerns about the legislation, particularly the abolition of Section 21, saying it will make it harder to remove troublesome tenants.

The news come as the Renters’ Rights Act came into force on 1 May 2026.

More bad tenants than bad landlords

Landlord Wendy Trimnell told the Bournemouth Daily Echo that she sold her properties before the act became law.

She said to the paper: “There are far more bad tenants than there are bad landlords.

“Everything is going on the side of the tenants, and the new law is the main reason for us selling.

“I have always considered myself a good landlord and made sure our properties are in good condition.

“However, we’ve had some tenants who abuse this and do not bother with the upkeep of the property.  Getting rid of Section 21 puts us at a disadvantage in terms of trying to move out troublesome tenants.”

Sledgehammer to crack a nut

Another landlord warned that the abolition of Section 21, along with fixed-term tenancies, has done more harm than good for both tenants and landlords.

Dave Watson told the Bournemouth Daily Echo: “Before, you would have shorter tenancies, where a set time and price would be agreed and there would be ways to end the contract on both sides.

“In business, you enter into a contractual agreement, where both sides have a get-out, but now, you can’t do that, it’s doesn’t seem reasonable.

“If you’ve got a tenant who’s high-maintenance and complaining about everything, you don’t want to keep that person, although I’ve never had that experience myself.

“I emphasise with renters, I would know, I was one until I was 30, but I think this act is like taking a sledgehammer to crack a nut.”

Stability for renters

However, the local MP for the area Tom Hayes argued the act will bring stability for renters.

He told the paper: “This will give people greater stability, stronger protections, and a fairer deal against rogue landlords.

“Ending no-fault evictions means families will no longer live under the constant threat of being forced out of their homes without reason.

“That security matters for people trying to build their lives, raise children, and stay connected to their communities.”