We will continue to advocate for a fair and flexible private rented sector that works for all. Ensuring the court system is properly resourced and that possession grounds are workable remains critical to the success of the reforms. Robust and consistent enforcement by local authorities is also essential. Without it, the intended benefits of the changes risk being lost.
The Impact of Section 24 on buy-to-let landlords in England
In the summer budget of 2015, Chancellor George Osbourne, announced his intention to limit the ability of landlords to claim tax relief on finance costs including mortgage fees and mortgage interest payments. Despite the significance of Section 24, it is not clear how landlords have been impacted or of their future intentions. The English PRS is in a state of flux and this research is important to identify and address the challenges.
Reforming the PRS: landlord views of the Renters' Rights Bill
Labour's reworked Renters' Rights Bill is intended to replace the Renters (Reform) Bill, and whilst it, essentially remains the same, its implications may be more significant for landlords and the private rented sector (PRS). Insights into the Bill from the landlord's perspective, obtained from Propertymark letting agent members' landlords in March 2024 are still prevalent. Established worries remain unaddressed, and more concrete guidance is necessary.
Reforming the PRS: letting agent views of the Renters' Rights Bill
The Renters' Rights Bill has been reworked following Labour taking power in July 2024, which is intended to replace the Renters (Reform) Bill, and whilst it essentially remains the same, its implications may be more significant for the private rented sector (PRS). Research conducted with a geographically representative sample of Propertymark letting agent members provide valuable evidence that policymakers can use to help shape the Bill and inform its implementation. Established worries remain unaddressed, and more concrete guidance is necessary.
Renting with pets survey reveals extent of damage costs to landlords
An online survey showed that pet damage is extremely common in properties where landlords rent to tenants with pets and the costs are difficult to recoup. With the demand for pet-friendly homes continuing to increase, the UK Government must now understand the costs for landlords and implement rules that support the sector.
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Latest news
UK Government shares vision of robust, timely, and granular PRS data
The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published a new data collection strategy to support monitoring of the private rented sector (PRS) and evaluate the impact of the Renters’ Rights Act in England. The paper sets out how surveys, local authority data, court and tribunal data, the new PRS Database, Ombudsman Information, and market evidence will be utilised to assess how the reforms are working in practice.