Landlord voids fall after the Renters’ Rights Act introduction

Average void periods across England fell to 21 days in June, three days below the 24-day figure recorded in May following the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act.

The May figure was the highest in Rushbrook & Rathbone’s comparison, with the legislation having come into force that month.

June’s average was still two days more than in June 2025, when properties were empty for an average of 19 days between tenancies.

The residential property management company said landlords were increasingly looking beyond compliance and reviewing how their properties are managed.

Landlords adapt to RRA

The firm’s managing director, Roma Sharma, said: “It’s encouraging to see void periods beginning to reduce following what has been one of the most significant periods of change the private rented sector has experienced in recent years.

“However, landlords shouldn’t view this as a sign that the hard work is done.”

She added: “Whilst many initially focused on ensuring they were compliant with the requirements introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act, we’re now seeing a much broader shift in mindset.

“Increasingly, landlords are asking how they can build more professional, resilient rental portfolios that not only meet today’s regulatory standards but continue performing well in the years ahead.”

Regional voids improve

The South West recorded the biggest reduction between May and June, with its average void period falling by 12.3 days.

The North East followed with a 6.3-day decrease, while the West Midlands recorded a fall of 3.7 days.

Average gaps in the North West shortened by 2.6 days over the same period.

Yorkshire and the Humber also recorded a reduction, with void periods falling by 2.3 days.

Annual gaps remain

Compared with June 2025, Yorkshire and the Humber recorded the largest increase in void periods at 3.8 days.

The East Midlands followed with an annual rise of 3.4 days, while the South West was up by two days.

Void periods in the East of England were 1.9 days longer than a year earlier.

London recorded an annual increase of 1.8 days.