Fact Sheet: Discrimination in the rental market (England)

Property auctions can offer speed, certainty and access to properties that may not be available through the traditional sales market. However, analysis of complaint data from The Property Ombudsman (TPO) shows that consumer understanding cannot be left to chance. The findings suggest that consumers are entering the process without appreciating the risks, timescales, fees, or the point at which they become legally or financially committed.

The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published a new data collection strategy to support monitoring of the private rented sector (PRS) and evaluate the impact of the Renters’ Rights Act in England. The paper sets out how surveys, local authority data, court and tribunal data, the new PRS Database, Ombudsman Information, and market evidence will be utilised to assess how the reforms are working in practice.

Local housing authorities in England have gained new investigatory powers under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, including the ability to enter rental sector business premises as part of enforcement activity. Officers can request and seize documents, but their powers are not unlimited. Agents should know what officers can lawfully ask for, what notice should be given in routine cases, and what protections apply to legally confidential material.

Published on 14 May 2026, the survey looks at renters’ satisfaction, tenancy security, eviction practices, barriers to renting, and complaints handling. It shows that many tenants report positive experiences, but there are still clear pressure points, especially for people receiving housing support, households with a long-term illness or disability, and renters who need to raise a complaint. The key test will be whether the Act raises standards, improves enforcement, supports effective redress, and ensures landlords and agents have the confidence to keep providing homes.