Housing Tenancy Reform Bill Moves Through Legislature, Targeting Shoreditch Private Rentals

The Housing Tenancy Reform Bill, now advancing in the legislature's committee stage, would apply new registration rules and deposit caps to private rental properties across Shoreditch. The changes would cover an estimated 8,400 tenancies in the area, according to borough housing records released last month.

Why the bill is advancing now

Legislators introduced the measure after the government published updated housing supply data showing a 14 percent rise in Shoreditch eviction notices filed between January and May 2026. The explanatory notes attached to the bill cite these figures as the trigger for requiring landlords to submit tenancy details to a central register within 28 days of signing.

Local housing officers have begun preparing guidance documents for both tenants and landlords. The register would be maintained by the borough council and linked to existing licensing schemes already operating in parts of Hackney.

Effects on daily costs and services

Under the proposed rules, Shoreditch residents seeking new tenancies would face a maximum security deposit equal to one month's rent rather than the six weeks currently permitted in many contracts. A separate clause would require landlords to provide written notice of any rent review at least two months in advance.

Community advocates who met with council staff last week noted that the deposit change could free up several hundred pounds for new tenants moving into properties near Shoreditch High Street or Old Street station. The legislation states these provisions would take effect six months after royal assent.

Policy analysts reviewing the bill's financial memorandum have pointed to a projected £2.1 million annual cost for the borough to run the new register, funded through existing housing enforcement budgets. The government says the policy will reduce disputes handled by the county court by requiring upfront documentation.

Further committee hearings are scheduled for the week of 22 July, after which the bill could return to the full chamber for final votes before the summer recess.