The new Renters’ Rights Act is a “start” and an overdue sign that someone’s listening, a longtime Peckham tenant told SouthLondonLines (SLL).

Christina Burnei, a 52-year-old housewife, said she had rented the same flat for 11 years and keeping up with the rising rent was an ongoing struggle. “Every year the rent goes up, but wages stay the same,” she said, but perhaps the new law will help.

“At least now we have something protecting us, it feels like we have more rights,” she added.

The Act, which became law on October 27, is being described as one of the biggest changes to London’s housing system in decades. The Renters’ Rights Act bans no-fault evictions, limits rent increases and requires landlords to meet tougher housing standards.

Burnei admitted that she was not sure how much will actually change as a result of the law “but it’s a start”. Until now, she said, tenants like her faced the invidious situation of being ignored by landlords. “When something breaks, it can take weeks or even months to get it fixed. You start to feel like tenants don’t matter at all”. 

Many tenants are in the same boat, she said, as living costs continue to rise. “I’ve seen neighbours move out because they just couldn’t afford it anymore,” she said.

“You pay your rent on time, you follow the rules, but you still never feel secure. One letter from the landlord and your whole life could change”.