Date Published 25 July 2025
A dispute over the Renters Rights Bill has escalated between the UK government and leading property technology company Reapit, with the firm demanding the release of a key report it believes could reveal major weaknesses in the justice system. Reapit is calling for the publication of the Justice Impact Test conducted for the Renters Rights Bill, arguing it will expose the court system's inability to manage the surge in eviction-related legal cases anticipated once Section 21 'no-fault' evictions are abolished.
The company initially requested the report directly from the government but was denied access. Following that, Reapit filed a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, which was also rejected. The refusal comes amid growing concerns over the state of the courts. A new report from the House of Commons Justice Committee highlights 'unacceptable and increasing delays' across nearly all types of claims in the County Court system — the very courts that would handle the bulk of eviction proceedings under the new legislation.
In its FOI response, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) acknowledged that it holds the Justice Impact Test but said it is withholding the document under an exemption that protects the formulation of government policy. The department argued that releasing the information could have a 'chilling effect' on policy development and concluded that 'on balance, it is not in the public interest to disclose this information at this time.'
Reapit has since appealed the decision.
Dr Neil Cobbold, Commercial Director at Reapit UKI, said:
'We recognise the government's need for a ‘safe space' during the early stages of policy development. However, with the Renters Rights Bill having cleared the Report Stage in the House of Lords, the conversation has now moved on to final amendments and implementation. At this point, there is an undeniable public interest in understanding how the justice system is expected to absorb the changes — particularly in light of the Justice Committee's findings on growing delays in County Courts, where eviction cases will be heard.
Landlords, tenants, and letting agents are already preparing for what the Bill will mean in practice. Publishing the Justice Impact Test would offer much-needed clarity and ensure everyone involved is adequately prepared for the transition.'
Cobbold added that Reapit is actively supporting its clients through the upcoming changes by updating workflows, refining compliance tools, and offering resources to help the industry adapt smoothly once the Bill becomes law.
Adams Estates will ensure to keep track of this development and keep all clients updated as this progresses.
