This briefing, prepared in partnership with University of Warwick and Central England Law Centre, draws from our research findings with marginalised groups, exploring why they struggle, what makes a difference and what is needed now to turn housing rights into a reality.
The Renters Rights Act 2025 has the potential to transform the private rented sector (PRS) by strengthening the rights of private tenants and making landlords more accountable. However, enhanced protections will be of limited use to renters from marginalised communities if they are not aware of their rights and if they do not have the skills or appropriate support to exercise them.
Key points
Why do people struggle to access their housing rights?
- Most people have limited knowledge of their housing rights.
- The steps involved in asserting rights and the formal processes for enforcement can be difficult to navigate.
- Fear, shame and stigma prevent people from asking for help.
- Housing advice and legal support are simply not available to most people.
What makes a difference?
- Support from community organisations helps people take early action and access more specialised support.
- Holistic assessments help identify interconnected problems and anticipate risks.
- Access to advice and legal support improves outcomes.
What is needed now to secure improved protections for renters brought about by the Renters Rights Act?
- Ensure the availability of high quality, accessible legal information, guidance and education.
- Increase the availability of early housing advice and legal support.
- Fund targeted, collaborative approaches that help ensure people receive help at the earliest opportunity, with clear and stable referral routes from community organisations to advice and legal services.
- Work together to address systemic issues that arise for marginalised people in enforcing new rights.
