Residential Lettings

The Renters (Reform) Bill & associated guidance were published by the UK government in May this year. The UK government say the Bill will deliver on the government’s commitment to “bring in a better deal for renters”. Propertymark and Bletsoes agree that improvements to the private rented sector are needed, however, they must deliver a fair system for both landlords and tenants alike.

Measures contained in the Bill still need to go through the usual legislative hurdles, requiring parliamentary time. When a Bill is published in full and introduced to Parliament, it is known as ‘First Reading’. It is also the first stage of a Bills’ passage through Parliament. The next step is Second Reading, which is the first opportunity for MPs to debate the general principles and themes of the Bill. This was expected to take place week commencing 5 June 2023. We have since been advised by Propertymark that the second reading has not yet taken place, potentially delaying the Bill being passed into law.

The key areas contained in the Bill are as follows: -

• No fault eviction abolished, all tenancies to move to periodic
• Introduce more comprehensive possession grounds so landlords can still recover their property (including where they wish to sell their property or move in close family) and to make it easier to repossess properties where tenants are at fault, for example in cases of anti-social behaviour and repeat rent arrears
• Provide stronger protections against retaliatory evictions
• Introduce a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman to reduce pressure on the courts
• Create a Portal for landlords and tenants to understand responsibilities and obligations  
• Give tenants the right to request a pet in the property. Landlords will be able to require pet insurance to cover any damage to their property

As a Propertymark member, Bletsoes will be updated by our professional body throughout the Parliamentary process, and we will use this information to keep our landlords updated.

Just another reason to use Bletsoes Lettings Team for your rental property requirements, always professional, always one step ahead.

If you would like some more information on the types of service the Bletsoes Lettings Team offer, then please do get in touch and a member of the Team will be happy to help.

Teresa Mutton

Residential Lettings Manager