Renters' Rights Act
Councils are assessing the Renters' Rights Act's impact on homelessness prevention and adapting housing policies, with Lewisham reviewing its implementation.
Hackney Council's Housing and Homelessness Scrutiny Commission heard in September 2026 that homelessness prevention success dropped by 29% in the first four months of the 2026/27 financial year, with officers attributing this to the Renters' Rights Act. In response to the changing housing landscape, Richmond Council adopted a new Private Rented Sector Offer Policy in July 2026, aiming to reduce homelessness and save £1.92 million by 2029-30. Wandsworth Council also approved a similar policy in July 2026.
Lewisham Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed in July 2026 to review the Renters' Rights Act and its implementation, having previously considered it in June 2026. Merton Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed in March 2026 concerns that some landlords might exit the private rental market due to the new legislation, potentially reducing available properties. However, Merton Council anticipates the Act will reduce the need for temporary accommodation placements.
The Renters' Rights Act, which came into effect in May 2026, is legislation designed to protect the rights of tenants in the private rented sector. It aims to improve conditions for private renters and includes provisions such as the abolition of Section 21 'no-fault' evictions. Redbridge Council's Housing Committee reviewed its preparedness for upcoming housing inspections in June 2026, noting the Act as a significant legislative change.
Key facts
- Hackney Council reported a 29% decrease in homelessness prevention success in the first four months of 2026/27. Source
- Richmond Council adopted a new Private Rented Sector Offer Policy on July 30, 2026. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- Richmond Council projects savings of £1.92 million by 2029-30 from its new policy. Source 1 Source 2
- Wandsworth Council approved a Private Rented Sector Offer Policy on July 29, 2026. Source
- The Renters' Rights Act came into effect in May 2026. Source 1 Source 2
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.