Property industry news
EPC reforms designed to underpin net zero journey
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Scotland are to be revised and updated to give consumers a clearer picture of their home’s energy performance and link better with the drive to cut emissions from buildings. The proposed changes include a new rating system with clearer information on the fabric energy efficiency of a property, the emissions, efficiency and running costs of its heating system, and the cost of energy to run the home.
Swathe of 10,000-home towns will be under construction by 2029
The Ministry for Housing, Planning and Local Government (MCLHG) has issued an update on their plans for a generation of new towns six months after the launch of a dedicated task force. More than 100 potential sites across England have been suggested after the UK Government asked for expressions of interest from councils, housing developers and landowners.
New fire safety guidance offers support for managing agents
The UK Government has published a new guide to help make small blocks of flats in England safer from fire. It has practical advice for agents, building managers and owners on improving fire safety in blocks of up to three storeys containing up to six flats and includes new legal requirements introduced through Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022.
New limits on Right to Buy will slow down the loss of council homes
The UK Government is proposing changes to the Right to Buy (RTB) scheme intended to create a fairer and more sustainable system which retains the opportunity for social housing tenants to buy their homes while supporting councils to replace properties that are sold. Propertymark is supportive of the proposals, which include increasing the length of time someone needs to have been a public sector tenant, amending discount percentages, and allowing Councils to ask for repayment of discounts if the property is resold within ten years.
Simplified home improvement law to be debated by Lords
Introduced on 7 February 2025, the Permitted Development Rights (Extension) Bill, put forward by Lord Lucas, proposes significant changes to planning laws in England and Wales, establishing new rights for householders to modify their properties in primary legislation for the first time. Propertymark responded to the UK Government's consultation on Permitted Development Rights (PDRs) last year, supporting the reduction of barriers to sustainability upgrades.
Minister announces new plans to drive down property transaction timescales
Matthew Pennycook, MP, stated that the UK Government will work with HM Land Registry to digitise property data, making information more accessible and reducing delays caused by manual processes. This move is expected to streamline transactions and provide agents quicker access to essential property details.
Leasehold Right to Manage reforms take effect on 3 March 2025
The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (Commencement No. 3) Regulations 2025 mark the latest significant step towards strengthening the rights of leaseholders and providing them with greater powers and protections. These changes will directly impact estate and letting agents across the UK, as they affect how leasehold properties are managed, bought, and sold.
Shaping Wales's rental future: Propertymark's response to adequate housing proposals
One of the key themes of the White Paper is the Welsh Government’s commitment to achieving housing adequacy — a concept that includes affordability, security, and access to quality housing. While Propertymark agrees with this goal and supports enshrining housing adequacy as a human right in Welsh law, we have urged policymakers to focus on pro-growth policies rather than introducing restrictions that will force landlords out of the market.
PRS energy performance back on the UK Government's agenda
A consultation has been launched on Improving the Energy Performance of Privately Rented Homes in England and Wales by 2030, following on from the 2020 consultation, that will set new proposals whilst providing a government response to the previous consultation. At the same time, a Review of the Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation has opened to ensure warmer and safer homes for low-income and vulnerable households is a priority.
Propertymark calls for Landlord and Tenant Act to align with modern business needs
The Act is a cornerstone of commercial property law, offering security of tenure to business tenants while balancing landlords’ rights. However, Propertymark believes it is time to modernise the Act to reflect today’s challenges, including Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and fairer lease agreements.
Housing insight report: December 2024
Winter is historically quieter in the sales market as people hunker down for the festive period. However, with the announcement that many will see increases in their Stamp Duty bill from April 2025, in some cases costing the average buyer thousands of extra pounds, we expect there to be a noticeable shift in activity moving into 2025.
Major Build-to-Rent scheme opens in Wandsworth
Legal & General (L&G) has announced the completion of one of the UK's largest purpose-built rental developments, with 1,034 homes across 18 buildings, marking one of the UK’s most significant Build-to-Rent (BTR) schemes, to date. As BTR continues to reshape the private rented sector, Propertymark offers a specialist training course to help agents stay ahead in this growing market. Covering investment trends, legal frameworks, and tenant expectations, the course equips professionals with the knowledge to navigate this evolving sector.