Hello from Southwark Private Renters’ Support Project!
Our November newsletter reports on the passing of the Renters’ Rights Act(!), shares our Private Renters Survey and Cost of Living Roadshow, and updates you on Southwark Council’s licensing rules in the news.
Renters’ Rights ACT receives Royal Assent!
Over two years since it was first introduced, the Renters’ Rights Act has finally received Royal Assent, ushering in a fairer rental landscape for 11 million tenants in the UK. The Act’s landmark provision is an end to Section 21 ‘no fault’ eviction, meaning landlords will no longer be able to evict their tenants without a specific reason.
In Southwark, we know that the third most common cause for homelessness is eviction from the private rented sector, so we anticipate that the new law will go a long way to ensuring greater security in our homes.
Do note however, that there will be an implementation period for the measures in the Renters’ Rights Act to come into force – so for the time being, you can still receive a valid Section 21 notice, and other rights in the new legislation are not yet “active”. We’ll keep you updated on the implementation timeline of the Act once the government announces this.
Private Renters Survey
We want to hear about your experiences of renting in Southwark, to learn more about the challenges you face and your awareness of your rights as a private renter. Your participation helps us deliver better support to private renters, and will direct our campaigning efforts to improve conditions and renters’ rights.
Cost of Living Roadshow
The next Cost of Living Roadshow will be at Rockingham Community Centre, Falmouth Road, SE1 6QP on Thursday 20 November, 10am-1pm.
You can get support from Southwark Council’s Private Rented Sector Tenancy Relations Service on issues including:
- Eviction or threat of eviction
- Harassment from your landlord
- Homeless applications and related issues.
You can also access other cost of living related services including:
- Southwark Council Financial Inclusion: For help if you’re struggling to pay your rent and need a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP).
- Department for Work and Pensions (DWP): For help if you’re having issues with your benefits.
You don’t need to book an appointment, just turn up on the day to speak with these, and other services that can help you deal with the cost of living.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves found breaking Southwark licensing rules
Southwark Council’s private rented sector licensing scheme made national news last week as Chancellor Rachel Reeves was found to be letting out an unlicensed property in Dulwich Wood. The property falls under Southwark’s selective licensing scheme, which means the Chancellor is required by law to apply for a license from the Council before letting out the property. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines and penalties, though Southwark Council has suggested they will not take further enforcement action against Reeves.
Read our blog posts on licensing to learn more about the schemes in Southwark, and why they can help you have a safer renting experience.
Thanks for reading our November 2025 newsletter!
