Renting in Southwark — your rights as a tenant in 2026
Southwark is undergoing massive regeneration around Elephant and Castle and the South Bank. This creates both modern, high-specification rental stock and displacement pressure on existing tenants.
£2,100
Average monthly rent
50,000 households
Private renter households
Common issues for Southwark renters
⚠High rents
⚠Regeneration area disruption
⚠New build defects
⚠Deposit disputes
⚠Older housing disrepair
How the Renters' Rights Act affects Southwark
From 1 May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act 2025 brings major changes for every private tenant in Southwark. Here's what matters most:
No-fault evictions abolished. Your landlord can no longer use Section 21 to evict you without a reason. They must prove a valid ground under Section 8.
Rent increases limited. Your landlord can only increase rent once per year, via a formal Section 13 notice with 2 months' warning. You can challenge unfair increases at a tribunal.
Periodic tenancies for all. All tenancies become rolling month-to-month. You can leave with 2 months' notice at any time — no more being locked into a fixed term.
Right to request a pet. Blanket pet bans are no longer enforceable. Your landlord must consider your request fairly.
Rental bidding banned. Particularly relevant in Southwark where competition for properties drives up prices. Landlords must advertise a set price and cannot accept offers above it.
Your local council
London Borough of Southwark
Environmental Health / Private Renting Team: 020 7525 5000
If your landlord is not maintaining your property, your deposit is not protected, or you are being threatened with illegal eviction, contact your council's Environmental Health team. They have the power to inspect properties, issue improvement notices, and prosecute landlords who fail to comply.
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