## Renting Homes (Wales) Act: Landlords Report Negative Impact

A survey published this week by the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) highlights that 47% of landlords in Wales feel the Renting Homes (Wales) Act has adversely affected the rental market. The legislation introduced occupation contracts and ‘no fault’ evictions, which the NRLA claims have caused more disruption than benefits. Landlords report facing “significant adjustments” since the Act’s implementation.

This development coincides with the imminent Royal Assent of the Welsh Homelessness Bill, which is expected to increase pressure on landlords and local authorities. The Bill will abolish the ‘intentionality test’, extend the homelessness risk period from 56 days to six months, and introduce a ‘deliberate manipulation of the system test’. These changes could further complicate landlords’ responsibilities and tenant management in Wales.

**What this means for landlords:** Welsh landlords should prepare for ongoing regulatory changes that may affect eviction processes and homelessness assessments. Staying informed and seeking professional advice will be crucial to navigate these evolving legal requirements.

## Bristol Council Seeks Views on Landlord Financial Penalties

In a notable move ahead of the Renters’ Right Act coming into force on 1 May 2026, Bristol City Council has launched a public consultation inviting tenants, landlords, agents, and the wider community to comment on proposed financial penalties for landlords breaching housing standards. The consultation asks whether current penalties are “too high,” “too low,” or “about right,” and explores potential increases for repeat offenders or reductions if landlords promptly remedy breaches or pay fines on time.

The Renters’ Right Act will introduce significant changes to landlord regulation, including the banning of section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. Bristol’s consultation reflects a growing trend of local authorities seeking community input on enforcement measures.

**What this means for landlords:** Landlords operating in Bristol should consider participating in the consultation to influence penalty frameworks and prepare for stricter enforcement under the new Act. Understanding local council expectations will help mitigate risks of financial penalties.

## Possession Claims Decline Ahead of Section 21 Ban

Research from Inventory Base reveals a 7.8% decrease in possession claims compared to the previous year, with 91,093 claims lodged so far in 2026 versus 98,766 in the same period last year. This decline aligns with the impending ban on section 21 evictions under the Renters’ Right Act.

The reduction in possession claims may indicate landlords adjusting their approach to tenant management and eviction proceedings in anticipation of the new legal landscape.

**What this means for landlords:** Landlords should review their tenancy management strategies and seek legal guidance to ensure compliance with the forthcoming restrictions on eviction grounds.

## Landlords Lead in Preparing for Making Tax Digital

A recent study by Wolters Kluwer Tax and Accounting shows that 80% of landlords are ready for the Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative launching in April 2026. This readiness surpasses that of other sectors such as sole traders, where only 64% feel prepared. Landlords expect MTD to improve data analysis, bookkeeping, and financial forecasting.

Bas Kniphorst, Managing Director for Europe at Wolters Kluwer, commented:
“Making Tax Digital represents a fundamental shift in how individuals manage and report their tax affairs, and this research shows that while landlords are largely on track, many sole traders still feel uncertainty.”

Despite this, 86% of landlords expressed concerns about software choice and costs, with 28% proactively attending webinars to prepare. Many anticipate needing assistance from accountants.

**What this means for landlords:** Landlords should continue to engage with educational resources and consult professionals to ensure smooth adoption of MTD requirements, avoiding potential compliance issues.

## Additional Housing News Snippets

– A landlord group has lost a legal challenge against a selective licensing scheme.
– An agency advises landlords not to worry about new pro-pets policies.
– The government reassures student landlords regarding possession grounds.
– Warnings have been issued about a rise in rogue locksmith scams.
– The insurance industry highlights how extreme weather is making thousands of homes uninsurable.

For ongoing updates, landlords can refer to the Quick News Updates section on landlord law.