The Guardian view on the Renters’ Rights Act: finally, protections fit for the modern housing market | Editorial

New laws in England now require landlords to have a legal reason for eviction and follow a formal process for rent increases, shifting power in a housing market where private renting is the default for millions [1]. The Renters’ Rights Act, which came into force on 1 May, abolishes fixed-term tenancies and ends the practice where landlords could evict tenants for requesting repairs or challenging rent hikes [1]. Until last week, tenants who complained to their landlord or local authority were 159% more likely to receive a no-fault eviction notice [1]. The private rented sector in England nearly doubled in size between 2004 and 2013, and by 2023 almost two-fifths of households were renting privately or socially [1]. Home ownership has eroded, with 39% of 25- to 34-year-olds owning their home in 2023, down from 59% in 2000 [1]. Under the new rules, tenants can more easily challenge rent increases and may delay them for two months if facing financial hardship [1]. They will also no longer face the risk of a tribunal raising the rent above the landlord's original ask, a practice that had occurred [1]. The success of the act depends on long-term funding for councils to enforce the rules [1]. Ministers rejected calls for rent caps, which polling shows has cross-party support, and did not prevent a predicted rush of evictions by landlords ahead of the law's implementation [1].