You'd think that in these times, when renting is so expensive and competitive, tenants would at least be up to speed on the laws that protect them. Instead, a seeming trend is emerging across the UK: most renters have next to no idea what the Renters' Rights Act covers.
And that lack of awareness is costing them money, security, and peace of mind.
Most renters don't know their rights - and that's a big problem
With rents going up, evictions on the rise, and demand higher than ever, you'd think tenants would be more informed.
But surveys show that more than half of renters don't fully understand their rights, including such basics as:
- How much notice a landlord must give
- Whether their deposit should be protected
- What counts as an illegal eviction
- When a landlord can increase the rent
Many renters say they have “no idea” what the Renters’ Rights Act promises them or how to challenge unfair treatment.
Why do so many renters remain unaware?
1. The information isn’t explained clearly
Government websites aren't exactly the easiest to understand. The language is technical, and most renters just give up trying to decode it.
2. First-time renters feel overwhelmed
Many young renters jump into their first tenancy without knowing:
- What a Section 21 notice is
- What a protected deposit means
- What landlords must fix
3. Landlords don't always explain things
Some landlords are very good and transparent.
Others would instead like tenants to remain in the dark since this gives them an upper hand.
4. Renting culture normalises unfair behaviour
Many renters think:
- “This is just how renting works.”
- "I don't want to complain and lose my home."
So, they put up with issues they shouldn't quietly.
Here are some key rights that many renters are unaware of, even though they're protected by the Renters' Rights Act and other housing laws:
✔ Your landlord cannot enter without 24 hours' notice
✔ Your deposit must be protected in a government scheme
✔ You must be served notice before eviction
✔ All rent increases are subject to a legal process
✔ Your landlord is responsible for essential repairs
Final thought
The Renters' Rights Act has been established to protect people. But a law only works if people actually understand it. For a rental market as unforgiving as that of the UK, being informed is not merely useful, but actually indispensable. If you rent now or are about to, take some time to learn your rights. It may save you money, stress, and even your home.
