## Generation Rent warns of danger in the private rented sector

Generation Rent’s chief executive, Ben Twomey, has labelled the private rented sector (PRS) a “danger zone” due to a longstanding imbalance of power between landlords and tenants. Speaking to Matt Allwright on Channel 5 about the Renters’ Rights Act (RRA), Twomey emphasised that many renters face insecurity and live in poor-quality, unaffordable homes. He argued that the current rental system, which has persisted for nearly 40 years, is fundamentally skewed against tenants.

Twomey specifically criticised Section 21 of the Housing Act, which allows landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason. He described this as a leading cause of homelessness, stating landlords “can evict for no reason at the drop of a hat.” However, government data previously reported by Property118 indicates that landlords are not responsible for rising homelessness, suggesting a more complex picture.

## Renters’ Rights Act aims to improve tenant protections

The Renters’ Rights Act, set to come into force on 1 May, introduces several changes intended to enhance tenant security. Among these is the abolition of Section 21 no-fault evictions, which Twomey welcomed as a positive step. The Act also bans rental bidding wars, requiring landlords and letting agents to publish a fixed asking rent and prohibiting them from accepting bids above this price. This measure aims to prevent landlords from exploiting high demand to push rents beyond advertised levels.

Twomey described rental bidding wars as landlords “rubbing their hands together” by pitting tenants against each other to maximise rental income, a practice unrelated to covering costs or improving property quality. Similar rules in New Zealand have been followed by rising average rents, highlighting potential unintended effects.

## Critics warn of unintended consequences for landlords and tenants

Despite support for tenant protections, critics on the Channel 5 panel expressed concerns about the broader impact of the Renters’ Rights Act. Broadcaster James Max acknowledged that some Section 21 evictions were abused but warned the government had not fully considered the Act’s unintended consequences.

Max suggested the legislation could reduce flexibility for specific tenant groups, such as students, making it harder for them to secure accommodation. Industry experts have echoed these concerns, noting that the RRA may restrict housing options for students, potentially affecting university access.

Furthermore, Max predicted landlords would likely increase rents to offset rising costs from new regulations, taxes, and red tape. He stated: “If anybody thinks this isn’t going to impact on rent and what is charged, think again.” He also warned that the Act could reduce the supply of rental properties and increase disputes, leading to more cases in the courts.

## What this means for UK landlords and agents

Landlords and letting agents should prepare for the changes introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act, including the prohibition on no-fault evictions and rental bidding wars. While these measures aim to protect tenants, they may also lead to increased administrative burdens and potential rent rises as landlords seek to cover higher costs.

The debate highlights the need for landlords to balance compliance with new tenant protections while managing their business viability. Understanding the possible unintended consequences, such as reduced rental supply and increased legal disputes, will be essential for navigating the evolving PRS landscape.

## Suggested internal link anchors

– Renters’ Rights Act
– Section 21 eviction
– private rented sector
– rental bidding wars
– tenant security
– landlord costs and taxes
– student housing challenges
– homelessness and PRS
– landlord-tenant power imbalance
– rental supply issues
– property management compliance
– tenancy dispute resolution

## TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/