The first half of 2026 has brought considerable change to the private rental sector with the implementation of the Renters' Rights Act, and further changes are expected.
With so much misinformation circulating, lettings agents at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward have dispelled five of the most common myths around renting in London.
Myth one: landlords can no longer evict tenants
The introduction of the RRA has brought many new rules, but the idea that landlords can no longer evict tenants isn't accurate. Landlords can still evict tenants, they simply can't use a Section 21 no-fault eviction anymore.
Instead, a landlord must rely on valid grounds under Section 8, for example, if a tenant repeatedly falls behind on rent payments or displays anti-social behaviour. Both landlords and tenants can reach out to their letting agent to check their rights should an eviction occur.
Myth two: relationships between landlords and tenants are only transactional
Caring about properties matters hugely in this industry, but systems, processes and expertise are also essential in helping prevent problems for landlords, tenants and the property itself. This is why many landlords enlist the help of an expert agent. When letting agents are involved, it's easy to assume the experience between landlord and tenant becomes more distant, but that isn't the case.
The best agents, for both renters and landlords, prioritise clear communication and honest expectations, making things feel straightforward from start to finish. Good management should make the whole process more transparent and easier to navigate for everyone involved.
Myth three: landlords can increase the rent to whatever price they want
Under the RRA, rent increases aren't a free-for-all. Landlords can generally only raise the rent once a year using the correct legal process, and any increase must reflect the market rate for similar properties in the area. If a tenant believes an increase is excessive, they have the legal right to challenge it through a tribunal, with guidance available on the Gov.UK website.
Myth four: tenants shouldn't report issues in case it causes problems with the landlord
It's both a right and a responsibility for tenants to raise issues and concerns with their landlord or letting agent. Small issues often go unreported until they become much bigger and more expensive to fix, since most costly repairs start out as easy, cheap ones. Tenants, landlords and letting agents should prioritise communication so that any issues are resolved quickly and smoothly.
Myth five: rental properties are no longer a good investment for landlords
While costs have changed, landlords can still see solid returns when properties are priced appropriately, well-maintained and managed properly. Earlier this year, KFH released its Quarterly Insights Report, revealing that:
- average London rent is nearly 70% higher than the national average
- confidence is returning to the London lettings market
Rental income, combined with long-term property value growth, can still make letting worthwhile financially. For renters, this often means better quality homes and more stable tenancies, since landlords thinking long term are more likely to invest in the property rather than chase quick wins.
Amongst all the recent changes, property continues to be one of London's most dependable ways to build long-term wealth, with new legislation making renting more secure for both landlords and tenants.
As the landscape becomes more complex, engaging with local experts remains one of the most effective ways for both landlords and tenants to navigate whatever situation they face.
