Sharp jump in Google searches for Renters’ Rights Act ahead of deadline

A sharp spike in Google searches for the Renters’ Rights Act and information sheet was recorded ahead of its implementation, as a lender warns key guidance may not be reaching landlords.

Research by Coventry for Intermediaries reveals searches for “Renters’ Rights Act 2026” rose by 600% between January 1st and May 1st 2026.

Searches for “renters rights information sheet” also saw a sharp rise in Google searches by +2250% ahead of the 31 May compliance deadline.

How many people are turning to Google for answers

Jonathan Stinton, head of intermediary relationships at Coventry for Intermediaries, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act was clearly front and centre for landlords and tenants earlier this year. The scale of search activity shows just how many people were turning to Google for answers on what the changes mean in practice.

“But it’s concerning that one of the sharpest rises is for a legal requirement carrying a fine of up to £7,000, that suggests the guidance landlords needed wasn’t reaching them clearly enough, or in time.

“A strong private rental sector has to work for both sides. Tenants need confidence in their rights, and landlords need confidence to stay in the market and plan for the long term.

“The rise in ‘limited company’ searches suggests many are already weighing up how to restructure for it and make sure their property investments are economically viable.”

Searches for tenancy agreements

The data also reveal searches for “what is a tenancy agreement” increased by 190%, while “assured tenancy” rose by 110%.

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, all fixed-term tenancies have been abolished and replaced by periodic tenancies.