Call for the strong enforcement of the Renters’ Rights Bill

One organisation says that while changes to rental law are vital, they are only the ‘first step’ in rebalancing power in the private rented sector (PRS).

Nationwide Foundation warns that the passing of the Renters’ Rights Bill in its progress to becoming law is not enough to address the deep-seated issues facing 11 million private renters.

Its programme manager for transforming the private rented sector, Joshua Davies, emphasises the need for a robust implementation strategy.

He says: “Without a proper scheme that helps renters know and use their rights, we risk a continuation of the same system that has left millions of renters living in poor conditions.”

Confidence to challenge landlords

Mr Davies points to the limited impact of similar reforms in Scotland, where renters often remain unaware of their rights and lack the confidence to challenge landlords.

To prevent this from happening again in England, he outlines these key steps:

• Strengthening local council enforcement: There’s a need for increased funding for local councils to effectively enforce rental regulations. He says there is inconsistency and ineffectiveness of current enforcement, urging for better data collection and collaboration between local authorities
• Delivering a functional national landlord register: The Bill introduces a national landlord register, which Mr Davies sees as a crucial tool for supporting renters, helping landlords understand their obligations, and improving data collection on the PRS
• Leveraging the power of devolution: He also emphasises the importance of empowering regional authorities to address local housing challenges and co-ordinate efforts to improve the PRS. Mr Davies points to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority as an example of successful regional initiatives
• Educating and empowering renters: Mr Davies also stresses the need to address the disempowerment of renters through education campaigns, supporting renter unions and organising projects.

‘Giving renters new rights in law’

Mr Davies says: “This reform is a vital step in changing the sector for the better, but the problems with renting do not end just by giving renters new rights in law.”

He adds: “Without a proper scheme of implementation that helps renters know and use their rights, we risk a continuation of the same system that has left millions of renters living in poor conditions, without the confidence to challenge bad practice and at risk of unlawful eviction.

“Our funded research into similar tenancy reform in Scotland found that even though private rented sector law changed in Scotland seven years ago, it is having limited impact today because tenants do not know or use their rights and can’t get help when they need it.

“We can’t let this happen again.”

Share This Article