A precondition for reform success
Propertymark has consistently advocated for a properly resourced, modernised court system to support such reforms. Our campaign has stressed the urgent need for digitisation of processes, regional consistency in court outcomes, and greater clarity in possession timelines.
These points were echoed in the Lords' debate, where members warned that without court reform, the intended benefits of the Renters' Rights Bill could be undermined by judicial bottlenecks and inconsistent outcomes, which could destabilise the private rented sector and harm both landlords and tenants.
The decision to abandon the commitment from the previous Conservative government to improve the courts before abolishing Section 21 has drawn criticism. As highlighted by multiple peers, this reversal could damage landlord confidence and drive property owners away from the market, thereby reducing housing supply at a time of increasing demand.
Ministers unwilling to accept amendments
Beyond court readiness, the debate spotlighted another issue central to our lobbying efforts: the need for robust scrutiny and futureproofing of any reforms to the rental sector. Concerns were raised over how little time has been dedicated to fully exploring the real-world implications of the Renters’ Rights Bill. Peers particularly flagged the lack of clarity over key areas such as student accommodation, rent arrears thresholds, and how the reforms would address antisocial behaviour.
Propertymark has warned that failure to properly consider these issues may result in unintended consequences. We have argued that rushed legislation, without proper consideration of the input from industry stakeholders, risks creating loopholes, confusion, and a sharp decline in sector confidence.
Protecting a sustainable Private Rented Sector
At its core, Propertymark’s position has always been to support a fair and balanced private rented sector that works for all parties. Our calls for court reform and careful scrutiny are not designed to delay progress, but to ensure that changes are workable, effective, and enduring.
The Lords' debate confirms that our evidence-based approach is making an impact in the policymaking arena. As the Bill progresses, we will continue to push for reforms that are properly resourced, thoughtfully designed, and structured to protect the long-term health of the housing market.
Supporting agents to adapt
Members unsure of what is being proposed by the legislation should attend one of Propertymark’s upcoming webinars, training courses or Regional Conferences to understand how the Renters’ Rights Bill might affect them.
Members can also sign up for email updates on legislation by setting their preferences in their online account, visiting our online Knowledge Hub and FAQs, and joining our hugely active and supportive Facebook Group.
Propertymark continues to engage with all sides of the political debate to ensure the Renters’ Rights Bill is evidence-based and workable. To this end, genuine concerns remain over the lack of scrutiny of the Labour Government’s proposed reforms and, to date, an unwillingness to ensure they are future-proofed. Court reform and capacity to deal with Section 8 cases after the removal of Section 21 is a key part of this.
Letting agents are not against reform, but if such a major overhaul of the private rented sector in England is to bring about positive change, it must be done in a way that protects landlords and tenants and retains flexibility and choice, which has been fundamental to the success of the private rented sector over the years.
