The Housing Committee of the Greater London Authority met on Monday 09 February 2026 to discuss the implementation and monitoring of the Renters' Rights Act in London. Key discussions focused on the significant changes the Act will bring for private renters and landlords, the challenges of enforcement, and the importance of awareness and understanding of new rights and responsibilities. The Committee also considered the potential impact of the Act on the private rented sector and the role of the Mayor and local authorities in its successful rollout.

Implementing the Renters' Rights Act in London

The most significant change anticipated from the Renters' Rights Act [2025] is the abolition of section 21 'no-fault' evictions, which is expected to increase renters' sense of security. However, research indicates that while the risk of eviction is low, the fear of it is high, impacting tenants' well-being and behaviour. The Act also introduces measures to address affordability pressures, such as banning rental bidding and limiting rent in advance, which are particularly relevant in London where these practices are more prevalent.

Concerns were raised about the enforceability of the Act, with experts highlighting potential issues related to local authority capacity, funding, and skills. There is a recognised need for a London-wide assessment of local authority capacity and resources required for enforcement, alongside consideration for ring-fenced funding. The effectiveness of current enforcement metrics, such as prosecutions, was questioned, with a call for a greater focus on measuring outcomes and compliance.

The complexity of the court system and existing backlogs were identified as potential barriers to enforcing renters' rights. The need for early and consensual dispute resolution was emphasised, with suggestions to explore more opportunities for alternative dispute resolution.

Landlord and Renter Awareness

A significant challenge identified is the low level of awareness among both renters and landlords regarding the Act's measures. Research indicates that a substantial percentage of renters in London have not heard of the Act or do not understand its implications. This lack of awareness is particularly pronounced among vulnerable groups, including those on lower incomes and with long-term health issues.

Landlords also show varying levels of awareness, with many finding it difficult to keep up with legal changes. The education and information role of organisations like the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) is acknowledged, but their limited membership means other avenues are needed to reach the wider landlord population. The upcoming national landlord database is seen as a potential tool for both education and enforcement.

Potential Risks and Unintended Consequences

Experts expressed concerns about the potential for the Act to lead to unintended consequences. Professor Christine Whitehead suggested that the Act might not lead to an increase in the supply of private rental properties and could even reduce it, as landlords may find it difficult to afford the necessary investments to meet new standards. There is also a risk that landlords might become more risk-averse, potentially impacting access for vulnerable groups, including disabled people.

The limitation on rent in advance could lead to an increased demand for guarantors, creating further barriers for certain tenants. The potential for landlords to switch properties to holiday lets was also raised as a threat.

The Role of the Mayor and Local Authorities

The Mayor of London, through the Greater London Authority (GLA), plays a convening and lobbying role, as formal powers over private renting lie with local authorities. The GLA's PRS Partnership is seen as a key mechanism for sharing best practice and discussing solutions. The Mayor's office is committed to updating its tools, such as the Rogue Landlord and Agent Checker, to reflect the new offences under the Act.

The Mayor's office is also planning to use its communication channels, including TfL posters and digital media, to promote renters' rights and responsibilities. However, it was noted that City Hall is not expecting additional funds to support boroughs in implementing the Act.

The effectiveness of training for frontline police officers in preventing illegal evictions was discussed, with ongoing efforts to improve awareness and protocols. The potential for sham licences, where landlords misrepresent tenancies as holiday lets to avoid responsibilities, was also highlighted as a concern.

Monitoring the Impact of the Act

The GLA will monitor the impact of the Act through various data sets, including those on evictions and trends in the PRS. Key areas of focus will include potential spikes in section 21 or illegal evictions, the impact on marginalised renters, awareness of rights, and the potential for landlords to unofficially force tenants out through rent increases. The GLA will also work with advice and community sector colleagues as its eyes and ears on the ground to gather intelligence.

Concerns were raised about the limitations of current data collection, which often focuses on formal actions and may not capture informal actions that achieve goals. There is a call for a London-wide dataset that includes information on informal actions and areas that are difficult to enforce. The potential for section 21 evictions to be replaced by section 8 evictions for similar reasons was also noted as an area for monitoring.

Funding and Support for Renters' Unions

The Mayor has expressed a desire to fund renters' unions, as committed in his 2024 manifesto, but at this stage, due to budgetary pressures, specific funding has not been identified. However, the Mayor continues to engage with renters' organisations and explore potential future support.

Key Decisions and Recommendations

While no formal decisions were recorded as being made at this meeting, the Committee noted the report and discussion, and delegated authority to the Chair to agree any output arising from the discussion. The Committee also noted its work programme, with the next meeting scheduled for 12 March 2026.

The discussions highlighted the critical need for clear communication, adequate resources for local authorities, and robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure the successful implementation and impact of the Renters' Rights Act in London. The importance of addressing the needs of vulnerable renters and ensuring landlords are fully aware of their obligations was a recurring theme.