Landlords are preparing to tighten tenant selection processes as the Renters’ Rights Act approaches, amid concerns over eviction rules and court delays.

With one month to go until the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force, new research suggests landlords are planning to adopt more rigorous tenant screening in response to the removal of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.

A survey of 500 landlords found that 69% intend to introduce more in-depth checks on prospective tenants to reduce the risk of entering into difficult tenancies. A similar proportion, 70%, said they would also become more selective about where they advertise their rental properties.

Although three quarters of respondents said they feel prepared for the legislation’s introduction on 1 May 2026, the shift away from Section 21 remains a central concern. Some 42% said the end of ‘no fault’ evictions would have the greatest impact on their business, while 43% highlighted the risk of problematic tenants, including those falling into arrears or engaging in anti-social behaviour.

Landlords’ concerns appear to be shaped by recent experience. Over the past 12 months, 51% reported at least one instance of rent arrears or late payment. More than a quarter, 27%, had encountered anti-social behaviour, while 22% said tenants had stayed in properties longer than intended. A further 18% reported damage caused by pets.

In response to the forthcoming changes, landlords are also calling for reforms to the legal process. Around 65% said faster court procedures are needed to minimise delays when seeking possession under Section 8, while 39% believe the number of mandatory grounds for possession should be increased.

Alongside operational changes, many landlords are considering how to manage the financial implications of the new regime. Just over a third, 35%, expect the legislation to have a direct financial impact on their business.

As a result, 53% said they would consider increasing rents, while 37% plan to review pricing more frequently. Meanwhile, 18% indicated they may look to reduce costs across their portfolios, including potential changes to maintenance schedules or the replacement of white goods.

POLICY SHIFT

Lisa Steele, mortgage lending director at Paragon Bank, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act represents a major policy shift, and landlords are adapting their approach accordingly.

“Given the pressures expected on the courts through the change to the eviction process, landlords are understandably planning to make more expansive checks on prospective tenants as they don’t want the cost and time involved in a lengthy eviction process.

“This creates challenges for those new to the rental market who have not yet built-up a tenant reference history, as well as those with infrequent income schedules. This was always the challenge for the RRA; while in brings in extra protections, it could exclude some of those tenants at the periphery of the market.”

She added: “Clear, practical guidance will help landlords implement the changes efficiently with as little disruption to their businesses and their tenants, and we’re continuing to share resources through our Renters’ Rights Act hub to support landlords and brokers as they embed the new rules.”