Can the Renters’ Rights Act deliver for London renters?

The Renters’ Rights Act promises the biggest shift in private renting for a generation, with stronger security, the end of bidding wars and upfront rent, and greater accountability for landlords. But questions remain over whether these reforms will translate into real improvements for London’s 2.7 million private renters, particularly those already facing the greatest barriers in the housing market.

Evidence suggests major risks to effective delivery, including limited enforcement capacity in councils, pressure on courts and tribunals, low awareness among renters, and concerns that some landlords may adapt their practices in ways that disadvantage low-income, migrant and other marginalised groups.

The London Assembly Housing Committee will meet on Monday to examine the potential impacts of the Act on London’s private rented sector, and the practical challenges to ensuring its benefits are felt fairly across the capital.

The guests are: 

Panel 1 (2:00pm – 3:15pm)

• Dr Jennifer Harris, Head of Policy, Research and Social Impact, TDS Group
• Vicky Spratt, Housing and Society Correspondent, The i Paper
• Professor Christine Whitehead, Emeritus Professor of Housing Economics, London School of Economics and Political Science 

Panel 2 (3:20pm – 4:40pm)

• Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development
• Vicky Pearlman, Housing Policy Manager, Greater London Authority
• Peter Haikin, Regional Lead for London, Operation Jigsaw

The meeting will take place on Monday 9 January 2026 from 2pm in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.

Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.

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