The professional body
for the property sector

The UK Government has acknowledged that homeowners may need greater protection from the unreasonable enforcement of restrictive covenants, following concerns raised by MPs over unexpected and potentially significant demands for payments. The move reflects issues Propertymark has highlighted through its long-running campaign for meaningful leasehold reform and greater transparency for property owners.

As the dust settles following the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, lettings agencies are finding alternative ways to mitigate uncertainty and financial risk for landlords. A range of services are growing in popularity that replace traditional, abolished methods like rent in advance, not least professional rent guarantor provision. This service offers reassurance for good tenants who can afford the rent but don’t quite meet the right criteria on paper, including students, self-employed people or those on benefits, or retirees.

To reduce the tax burden on the housing market rather than introduce further changes in isolation, we warn the Scottish Government that plans for two new council tax bands risk adding complexity while doing little to increase revenue.