Tenancy disputes surge 11% as Renters' Rights Act looms in 2026
Tenancy disputes in England and Wales are rising sharply, with an estimated 46,950 cases recorded in 2025. This marks an 11.1% jump from the previous year and continues a trend of steady annual growth. Experts warn the problem will worsen when the Renters' Rights Act takes effect in May 2026, bringing major changes to the rental sector.
The number of disputes has climbed steadily since 2015, when around 14,000 cases were reported. By 2022/23, this figure had more than doubled to over 30,000. The surge accelerated further, reaching roughly 45,000 in 2023/24 and 52,000 in 2024/25. Estimates now place the total at 60,000 for 2025/26.
Several factors are driving the increase. The removal of 'no-fault evictions' under the Renters' Rights Bill 2024 has made disputes more likely. Economic pressuresāsuch as inflation, rising interest rates, and lingering pandemic-related rent arrearsāhave also played a role. A persistent housing shortage adds to the strain.
Rent arrears, property damage, and disagreements over end-of-tenancy conditions remain the most common causes. Over a third of letting agents have dealt with at least one dispute, while 16% have handled multiple cases. Court action is now the standard method for resolution, though more than a quarter of disputes drag on for over six months.
Financial costs are also mounting. A third of professionals report spending between Ā£1,000 and Ā£5,000 per dispute. For one in five, the bill exceeds Ā£5,000.
The upward trend shows no signs of slowing, particularly with the Renters' Rights Act set to reshape landlord-tenant relationships from May 2026. The reforms aim to protect tenants but are likely to push dispute numbers even higher. With cases already lasting months and costs running into thousands, the pressure on both landlords and renters will continue to grow.
