Landlords warned of increased costs and greater uncertainty. Tenant groups welcomed stronger protections. Letting agents prepared for a significant shift in the way the private rented sector operates.
Now, one month on, the conversation has started to change.
The headlines have largely moved on from what the legislation might do and towards what is actually happening on the ground.
For many tenants, the biggest change has been the end of Section 21 "no-fault" evictions. The removal of these powers was one of the most talked-about aspects of the legislation and, for some renters, it has provided a greater sense of security about their future.
Whether that feeling grows over time remains to be seen.
One month is not long enough to fully judge legislation of this scale. Even so, early signs are beginning to emerge.
Many landlords and letting agents have spent much of the past few weeks adapting to the new rules and ensuring they remain compliant. New paperwork requirements, revised tenancy procedures and greater regulatory oversight have all added to the workload.
That is perhaps unsurprising. Any major legislative change usually creates a period of adjustment.
What appears to be attracting increasing attention is how landlords are responding.
Reports from across the sector suggest many are becoming more cautious when selecting tenants. Affordability checks, references and background information are all taking on greater importance.
From one perspective, that is understandable. If recovering possession becomes more difficult or takes longer through the courts, landlords are naturally likely to place greater emphasis on decisions made at the start of a tenancy.
Yet one wonders whether this could create new challenges for some prospective tenants who already find it difficult to access the rental market.
The court system is another area attracting attention.
The success of many aspects of the reforms may ultimately depend on how efficiently possession claims can be processed when landlords have legitimate grounds for recovering a property. If delays develop, pressure could build quickly across the sector.
It is also becoming clear that the Renters' Rights Act was never going to solve every housing problem on its own.
The shortage of rental properties remains a significant challenge in many parts of the country. Demand continues to outstrip supply, and affordability remains a concern for many households.
Stronger tenant protections may help improve security. They do not automatically create additional homes.
That wider issue remains firmly on the agenda.
Interestingly, much of the discussion today feels less political than it did six months ago.
The focus is increasingly turning towards practical questions.
Are tenants feeling more secure?
Are landlords becoming more selective?
Are letting agents spending more time on compliance than ever before?
Has the new system made life easier, harder, or simply different?
These are the sorts of questions that can only really be answered through experience.
This week on Property Quorum, Gareth Wax and Hamish McLay will be joined by Silas J Lees for a conversation about the first month of life under the new legislation and what the early signs may tell us about the future of the rental market.
The Renters' Rights Act has now moved beyond launch day.
The consultation papers have been replaced by reality.
The announcements have become day-to-day practice.
Perhaps the most interesting part of the story is only just beginning.
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