Reform UK Announces Plan to Scrap Renters' Rights Legislation
In a bold policy announcement, Reform UK has committed to repealing the Renters' Rights Act, a landmark law passed last year that introduced significant protections for private tenants in England. The legislation, which is scheduled to take effect on May 1, 2026, specifically prohibits no-fault evictions and limits landlords from demanding more than one month's rent in advance.
Criticism of 'Well-Intentioned' Law
During a speech on business policy, Reform MP Richard Tice argued that while the Renters' Rights Act was "well-intentioned," it has already begun to negatively impact the rental market. Tice, who has extensive experience as a commercial landlord, claimed the law is "reducing the supply of properties to rent and therefore increasing the prices" for tenants.
The proposed repeal would be part of a broader Great Repeal Act that Reform UK intends to push through Parliament if the party gains power. This legislative package would target measures deemed "unnecessary or against the strategic national interest," according to Tice.
Political Backlash and Tenant Concerns
Prime Minister Keir Starmer swiftly condemned Reform's plans, posting on social media that "stronger rights at work" and "better protections for renters" are now under threat. Starmer accused Reform leader Nigel Farage of "declaring war on the interests of working people."
The Renters' Reform Coalition, which campaigned vigorously for the legislation, warned that repealing the Act would jeopardize living standards for approximately 11 million tenants across England. Director Claire Collingwood stated: "Scrapping the basic protections in this Act would be a huge setback for millions of renters, driving up homelessness and making life harder particularly for those on lower incomes."
The coalition highlighted that in the Greater Manchester constituency of Gorton and Denton, where a crucial by-election is scheduled for Thursday, 24.5% of constituents are private renters. Reform UK hopes to win this seat, which Labour currently holds with a majority exceeding 13,000 votes.
Broader Policy Context
This announcement comes amid a series of significant policy moves by Reform UK. The previous day, the party's home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf outlined plans for mass deportations and the creation of a British equivalent to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.
Additionally, Reform has recently reversed its position on the two-child benefit cap. While leader Nigel Farage previously supported eliminating the limit, Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick—who defected from the Conservatives last month—now advocates for its reinstatement.
The Renters' Rights Act, introduced by then-Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, has been widely regarded as one of the more popular pieces of legislation enacted under the Labour government. Its potential repeal sets the stage for a contentious political battle over housing policy and tenant protections in the coming months.
