Loopholes in Rent-to-Rent must be closed to avoid abuse
Trading Standards is examining the impact of Rent-to-Rent and Guaranteed Rent (R2R) schemes on the private rented sector (PRS) in England, with the aim of identifying and evidencing areas of good practice, and issues of relevant non-compliance or emerging concerns. Propertymark was invited to provide input to an exploratory consultation as an interested party.
Maintaining fit properties through the winter months
A rental property is provided as a home for tenants and must be fit for human habitation (FFHH) throughout the tenancy. As the weather changes, it’s vital for agents to stay on top of property maintenance and make sure issues are put right for their tenants as soon as possible.
Labour are committed to regulation of property agents
Matthew Pennycook MP, Shadow Housing Minister said that a future Labour government would look to introduce the recommendations in Lord Best’s report to regulate property agents.
CMA to update guidance for lettings sector
Following complaints about a significant minority of landlords and letting agents who are not complying with Consumer Protection Regulations, the CMA (Competition and Markets Authority) will re-issue guidance, and investigations will then take place to check compliance followed by enforcement action where necessary.
Digital innovation targeted at speeding up home buying and renting
A paper from the Geospatial Commission sets out technological support for commitments from HM Land Registry and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) to make critical information digitally available to homebuyers and set up a reliable Private Rented Property Portal to raise standards and drive criminal landlords out of the sector.
Understanding landlord behaviour in PRS
A study by UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence (CaCHE) looks at practices which affect tenants’ ability to make a home in the PRS (private rented sector), with the findings echoing the importance of letting agents, especially in educating landlords and encouraging compliance.
Professional standards of letting agents
Good letting agents are highly trained and experienced professionals that offer a vast range of services and advice that can make all the difference to landlords and tenants. Propertymark member agents also follow a strict code of conduct and are regularly assessed to ensure they are meeting all the required standards.