In response to the Welsh Government’s call for evidence, Propertymark has shared members’ views on the impact of the legislation on their operations and business practices. We recognise that Rent Smart Wales (RSW) has achieved some progress in regulating and improving the private rental sector (PRS) and have made specific recommendations for how the Senedd can build on this going forward.

Our Head of Policy and Campaigns, Timothy Douglas, gave evidence to the Local Government and Housing Committee inquiry into the private rented sector (PRS) in Wales, urging them to learn lessons from the impact in Scotland and elaborating on key measures which were contained in Propertymark’s written evidence, such as a review of taxation, improved data collection, and a clear strategic plan to positively move the sector forward.

Without introducing measures that tackle tenant demand and landlord costs, property standards will reduce, landlords will leave the sector and rents will rise. This has been evidenced when rent controls have been implemented across Europe and the United States and is currently the case in Scotland.

Recognising the fact that some members in Wales operate for landlords of short-term holiday lets, Propertymark has responded to the Welsh Government’s consultation to establish a statutory licensing scheme for all visitor accommodation in Wales.

The announcement by the Minister of Climate Change Julie James MS, who also has a responsibility over housing, also marks the closure of the Tenancy Saver Loan scheme.

We responded to the Welsh Government’s consultation on improving building safety by supporting the proposed measures. However, we also urged them to consider the height of buildings, occupation and material used to build property to determine fire risk rather than simply the number of dwellings.

With the Welsh elections due to take place in May, Propertymark has published its manifesto containing key asks to support the housing sector in Wales.