Latest property news
Understanding the Renters' Rights Bill: what letting agents need to know
The Renters' Reform Bill was introduced to parliament on 11 September 2024. If passed without amendment, the Bill will significantly overhaul the structure for private rented sector housing and repeal Section 21, alongside a number of other significant measures including the removal of fixed term tenancies, the expansion of Rent Repayment Orders, and a new landlord Ombudsman. There are many hurdles for the Bill to clear as part of the process of parliamentary scrutiny, but as Labour have a majority in the House of Commons the legislation could go through as quickly as next spring, with the reforms being implemented by late summer 2025.
Renters' Rights Bill aims to change the landscape of the PRS
Propertymark met with Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook, MP, and Baroness Taylor, Lords Housing Minister, ahead of the Renters’ Rights Bill being introduced to parliament on 11 September 2024, to hear details of the UK Government’s proposals and provide initial feedback on behalf of members. Key features of the Bill include the abolition of Section 21, a ban on in-tenancy rent increases, and the removal of fixed-term tenancies. Our engagement with Ministers and officials will continue as the Bill progresses, with further meetings already arranged.
Professional inventories set the stage for successful tenancies
A survey of 1,500 UK renters has revealed that three in ten tenancies do not benefit from a property inventory, leaving agents, landlords, and tenants more vulnerable to costly disputes further down the line.