"The level of awareness we’re now seeing means the Renters’ Rights Act is no longer a future consideration for most landlords; it’s becoming part of how they assess risk and plan ahead"
- Mark Long - Pegasus Insight
Awareness of the Renters’ Rights Act is rising steadily across the private rented sector as the first phase of the legislation approaches, with implementation due from 1 May 2026, according to new research from Pegasus Insight.
Data from the latest Landlord Trends Q4 2025 survey shows that 75% of landlords now say they are aware of the forthcoming legislation, up 8% from the previous quarter.
Engagement is highest among landlords with more than 20 properties, with 88% describing themselves as aware, including 28% who are ‘fully aware.’ Limited company landlords follow closely, with 84% aware and 32% fully aware.
As understanding grows, landlords are forming views on the likely impact of the Act. Around three-quarters expect it to have a negative effect on their lettings activity, and 84% believe it will affect the private rented sector more broadly. Concerns are primarily focused on how possession processes will operate and whether the courts can manage cases efficiently.
“The level of awareness we’re now seeing means the Renters’ Rights Act is no longer a future consideration for most landlords; it’s becoming part of how they assess risk and plan ahead,” said Mark Long, founder and director of Pegasus Insight (pictured).
He added, “Many landlords recognise the intent behind the legislation, particularly in improving security and consistency for tenants. However, confidence in how it will operate in practice remains critical. With cases already taking an average of more than 50 weeks to be heard in the county courts, concerns about the effectiveness of possession processes are clearly front of mind.”
Long also highlighted an awareness gap among smaller or long-established landlords. “While three quarters of landlords are now familiar with the proposals, a significant minority remain less engaged, often smaller or long-established landlords who may not follow regulatory changes as closely as their larger counterparts.
“That creates an opportunity for brokers and other intermediaries to play a greater role in keeping landlords informed, particularly where financing conversations provide a natural point of contact. Where uncertainty persists, it is likely to influence how landlords approach future investment and portfolio strategy.”
