Halloween may be just around the corner, but for landlords, the real scares come from compliance risks and the major changes pending with the Renters’ Rights Bill. This reform represents a large shift in the private rental sector (PRS) and introduces new compliance requirements for landlords.
Here at CR Real Estate, we understand the pressures property owners face. Our tailored lettings and property management packages offer comprehensive solutions to help you navigate this challenging landscape, from tenant management to rigorous compliance checks. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and how they could affect you.
Abolishing ‘no-fault’ evictions and the end of fixed-term tenancies
The Bill proposes eliminating Section 21 “no-fault” evictions and fixed-term tenancies, establishing a single system of rolling, monthly agreements for all assured tenancies. This means tenants will have greater stability, but landlords will retain rights to reclaim properties if they need to sell or move in themselves. Although this shift promotes tenant security, it may affect a landlord’s flexibility in regaining control over their property.
At CR Real Estate, our compliance packages ensure you stay informed and supported throughout this change, with updated protocols for tenant communications and handling possession grounds effectively.
New grounds for repossession
The new legislation creates expanded grounds for possession, allowing landlords to reclaim properties if they or a family member intend to live in them, or if they wish to sell. However, restrictions apply: landlords cannot initiate possession in the first year of a tenancy, and if they use this option, they are prohibited from re-letting or re-marketing the property within 12 months.
We support landlords with clear, compliant processes to regain properties when necessary, ensuring a smooth transition under these new possession grounds.
Meeting the Decent Homes Standard
The Bill extends the Decent Homes Standard to the private sector, with a special emphasis on remedying hazards like damp and mold, enforced under “Awaab’s Law.” This law ensures that landlords act promptly on dangerous conditions, with failure to do so resulting in enforceable penalties.
Our property management teams are compliance experts and are here to help landlords in achieving and maintaining these standards, identifying issues early to prevent long-term damage or tenant complaints, ensuring your properties remain safe and compliant.
Non-discrimination policies and renting to tenants with pets
The Bill makes it illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants based on factors like benefits or family status. And it includes new measures allowing tenants to request pets in their rentals. Landlords may request insurance to cover any potential pet-related damages, balancing tenant rights with property protection.
Our experts ensure landlords follow non-discrimination policies, with guidance on fair tenant selection and requirements for pet accommodations, so landlords can confidently let their properties in line with the new laws.
New digital private rented sector database
A key change is the establishment of a national PRS database to record and track landlord compliance. This online registry will list all residential landlords and their compliance documentation, including certifications like gas safety records. Properties not registered in this database will be restricted from legal advertising or letting, with significant fines for non-compliance.
At CR Real Estate, we handle all registration and documentation for you. Ensuring that your entries are always updated and valid, protecting your ability to rent and advertise your properties.
Strengthening local councils and financial penalties for non-compliance
The Bill grants local councils greater power to enforce compliance and introduces financial penalties for non-compliant landlords, with fines reaching up to £40,000. This includes penalties for landlords who fail to join the new PRS Ombudsman service, which will mediate disputes and enforce fair treatment across the sector.
Increased transparency and accountability
Transparency is a recurring theme in the Renters’ Rights Bill. It requires landlords to provide a written statement of terms and clearly communicate rent increases. Which will now be capped at market rates and limited to annual adjustments. Tenants will also have the right to challenge any increase they believe exceeds market value. Additionally, landlords must now avoid rental bidding wars and stick to advertised prices.
To help landlords, CR Real Estate offers full compliance with these transparency requirements. Ensuring that all rental agreements are clear and meet legal standards, protecting both landlords and tenants.
CR Real Estate: your trusted partner in navigating compliance
At CR Real Estate, we understand that the Renters’ Rights Bill may create uncertainty. With our lettings and property management services, we provide a smooth, comprehensive approach to help landlords adjust. Our team manages everything from tenant communications to ongoing compliance, so you can relax while we handle the details.
Don’t let these new regulations keep you up at night. Click this link to register for more information and see how our expertise can help you stay ahead of these changes.
Recent Articles
