Three quarters of landlords are now aware of the Renters’ Rights Act, with concern increasingly centred on how possession claims will work in practice and whether the courts can cope.

Research from Pegasus Insight suggests awareness of the legislation is rising across the private rented sector as the first phase of the Act approaches, with implementation due to begin on 1 May 2026.

Its latest Landlord Trends Q4 2025 data found that 75% of landlords now say they are aware of the forthcoming changes, up 8% on the previous quarter.

Awareness is highest among larger portfolio operators. Among landlords with more than 20 properties, 88% said they were aware of the Act, including 28% who described themselves as fully aware. Limited company landlords were not far behind, with 84% saying they were aware and 32% fully aware.

The findings also indicate that landlords are reaching firmer conclusions about what the reforms could mean for their businesses. Around three quarters expect the Act to have a negative effect on their lettings activity, while 84% believe it will have a negative impact on the private rented sector more broadly.

Pegasus Insight said the main concerns relate to possession proceedings and the ability of the courts to deal with cases efficiently.

Mark Long, founder and director of Pegasus Insight, said: “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.

“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.

“There is also an important awareness gap to address. 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.”