Landlord News Renters Reform Bill Update Nov 2023

Propertymark is heartened that the UK Government recognises a strong, well-functioning private rented sector is necessary to provide quality homes for all renters, and that actively supporting the many good landlords and agents who provide these homes is a vital part of achieving this. Positive steps The LUHCC report agreed with Propertymark’s stance in a number of areas and was broadly appreciated by the sector. Having campaigned on these areas since the White Paper was introduced , we warmly welcome several of the amendments to the Bill. Speeding up the court process so landlords can quickly regain possession of their property if a tenant refuses to move out has been confirmed. The abolition of Section 21 and new possession grounds will be aligned with court improvements, which include: • Digitising more of the court process to make it simpler and easier for landlords to use • Exploring the prioritisation of certain cases including antisocial behaviour • Improving bailiff recruitment and retention and reducing administrative tasks so bailiffs can prioritise possession enforcement • Providing early legal advice and better signposting for tenants including helping them find a housing solution that meets their needs Mediation and dispute resolution services will also be strengthened to enable more problems to be settled without resorting to courts, and this service will be embedded within the functions of the new Ombudsman. Protecting the student market. The student market is cyclical and landlords must be able to guarantee possession each year for a new set of tenants. The UK Government will introduce a new ground for possession to facilitate this.