To start on a positive note, as per the latest Propertymark survey to the end of June 2024, using data provided by Agents across the United Kingdom, tenant demand has increased steadily month on month since March 2024. This may be partly due to demand continuing to outstrip supply, with around 9 new applicants registered for each available property in June 2024 and stock levels decreasing slightly.

Rental figures per calendar month across the whole of the UK do continue to rise and in June 2024 the average UK rents were 8.6% higher than in June 2023. However, rents continue to fluctuate depending on individual markets & regions.

As we enter the third Month under a new Labour government, we as Agents and members of Arla Propertymark, are constantly updated regarding proposed legislation affecting the rental sector that may come into force.

The Labour government have already indicated they have put renters’ rights back on the agenda through the introduction of its Renters Rights Bill. The proposals Labour are carrying over from the Conservative’s Renters (Reform) Bill and new proposals are shown below:

• Abolish Section 21 “no fault” evictions
• Expand possession grounds, so properties can be reclaimed when needed
• Strengthening tenants’ rights & protections
• Giving tenants the right to request a pet
• Applying a decent homes standard
• Creating a database to gather critical information for landlords, tenants and councils
• Introduce a new Ombudsman service
• Making it illegal to discriminate against tenants in receipt of benefits or with children
• New enforcement powers for local councils
• NEW Proposal – Expanding and applying “Awaab’s Law” to the private rental sector

Propertymark has strong relationships across the political spectrum, proactively representing members and opening dialogue with the new UK Government and lobbying to ensure legislation is evidence based and workable.

As a member of Propertymark Bletsoes will be kept abreast with full details of any proposed legislation put forward by the UK Government, and this information will be readily available to our landlords.

Just another reason to use Bletsoes Lettings Team for all your rental property needs, providing accurate and up to date information helping landlords stay compliant.

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

Teresa Mutton

Residential Lettings Manager