News and reports

The Chancellor of the Exchequer's Autumn Spending Review and Budget provided clarity on measures affecting the property industry which have been announced over the last three-six months including the levy on developers re unsafe cladding. Other factors announced affecting property agents provide some good news, however, it leaves a lot to be desired.

Propertymark contributed to an event jointly organised by CEPI (European Association of Real Estate Professionals) and the European Parliament’s URBAN Intergroup to discuss short-term rental platforms and their impact on the real estate sector, and cities in Europe.

A campaign to raise awareness and enforce rules banning landlords in England and Wales from renting homes with the worst-performing energy efficiency ratings has been launched by the UK Government.

Following repeated calls and lobbying from Propertymark and other organisations, the UK Government announced on 23 October a £65 million support package for councils in England to aid low-income earners in rent arrears in the private rented sector to help to prevent homelessness.

On 20 October 2021, the House of Lords debated the UK Government’s plans to implement the recommendations of the Regulation of Property Agents Working Group, published on 18 July 2019.

As life expectancy in Britain continues to rise, Propertymark highlights the need for a greater supply of affordable homes for the ageing population.

On 21 October 2021, the report entitled 'Lagging behind – energy efficiency in low viability properties' was launched by the think tank, Localis at the Council Room, One Great George Street, Westminster. The research was sponsored by Propertymark and the NRLA.

As part of its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050, the UK Government has launched a plan to lower the cost of energy efficient heating systems and incentivise homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

Spearheaded by Smart Energy GB, the UK Government-backed campaign body, the campaign is set to run from 18 to 22 October 2021, with the aim of increasing awareness and the number of smart meter installations across the private rented sector (PRS).