Renters’ Rights Act implementation has led to unprecedented clamour for The Property Ombudsman’s services, the organisation reports.
In the four months between November 2025 and February 2026, the ombudsman received 58% more complaints than in the same period a year earlier – which it dubbed the ‘Renters’ Rights effect’.
Complaints were mainly about housing disrepair, including damp and mould, while a common pattern is a lack of communication causing issues to escalate.
Lesley Horton, chief property ombudsman, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act is changing how people think about renting and their ability to challenge poor practice.
“We are already seeing unprecedented demand, and we expect that to continue as the new rights begin to take effect.
“This act and other proposed changes to the private housing sector will raise awareness of rights and obligations among consumers, influencing both the volume and nature of disputes through 2026.”
Most aspects of The Renters’ Rights Act’s will be in force from May, including the abolition of so-called “no fault” evictions and fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies, as well as the introduction of rent and payment reforms.
The Ombudsman said it has moved quickly to strengthen how it handles enquiries and disputes, including earlier professional judgement at triage, clearer evidence gathering and stronger quality assurance.
These improvements meant it resolved 54% more cases in 2025 than in 2024.
Last year there were 23,987 calls and email enquiries received and 7,681 disputes resolved, including 4,552 resolved through early resolution.
Horton added: “Our role is to be transparent, trustworthy and fair.
“We look at each case on the evidence, we explain our decisions clearly, and we work to resolve disputes in a proportionate way that supports consumers and good agents alike.
“For both consumers and agents, we are here to help. If you’ve dealt with an agent, and feel they have provided a poor service, our website includes lots of information that help you decide whether to raise a complaint, and what to do if you decide to. For agents who are our members, we provide advice and guidance at no extra cost.”
