Think tank urges government to introduce rent controls
A recent call from a left-wing think tank urges the UK government to introduce rent controls to address the growing issue of unaffordable housing costs for renters. The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) warns that without intervention, over 2.5 million renters could face housing they cannot afford, highlighting the urgency of reform in the […]
Scottish election 2026: A reset moment for the PRS
The 2026 Scottish elections have concluded, leaving many in the private rented sector (PRS) eager to understand the implications for landlords, tenants, and the wider housing market. While the formation of a new Scottish government remains uncertain, early indications suggest John Swinney will return as First Minister, with the Scottish National Party (SNP) likely to […]
The Renters’ Rights Act in plain English
The Renters’ Rights Act introduces significant changes to the private rented sector in England, with some provisions already in force and others phased in over the coming years. Landlords and agents must understand the immediate requirements, ongoing obligations, and forthcoming rules to ensure compliance and effective property management. Immediate actions for landlords Two critical deadlines […]
Concerns raised over £500 landlord tribunal fees and court delays
Recent changes introduced under the Renters’ Rights Act have raised concerns among landlords and letting agents regarding increased tribunal fees and ongoing court delays. Propertymark, a leading industry body, has highlighted the financial and procedural challenges landlords face when contesting council-imposed penalties and navigating an expanded tribunal system. New Tribunal Fees Under the Renters’ Rights […]
Mandatory five-year electrical checks introduced for social housing landlords
New legislation now requires social housing landlords in England to conduct mandatory electrical safety checks on their properties every five years. Failure to comply with these rules could result in fines of up to £40,000, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving safety standards in the social rented sector. Mandatory Electrical Safety Checks for Social Housing […]
Government sets out reforms to Right to Buy
The UK government has announced significant reforms to the Right to Buy scheme, aiming to create a fairer and more sustainable framework for council tenants wishing to purchase their homes. These changes come as part of a broader effort to support local authorities and address long-standing challenges within social housing. Revising Eligibility and Discount Rules […]
Second home council tax rise backfires and costs £383m
Recent research from Colliers reveals that attempts by local councils to increase council tax premiums on second homes are inadvertently costing the public purse an estimated £383 million annually. Rather than boosting revenue, these measures are prompting many second home owners to reclassify their properties as holiday lets, thereby avoiding council tax altogether through business […]
Mortgage lenders cut landlord BTL rates
Mortgage lenders have recently introduced reductions and new options for buy-to-let (BTL) mortgage rates, offering landlords greater flexibility and more competitive terms amid an uncertain interest rate environment. Hinckley & Rugby expands BTL offerings Hinckley & Rugby for Intermediaries has launched new buy-to-let mortgage products with loan-to-value (LTV) ratios up to 80%. These include two-year […]
Regional rent gaps widen across UK – Propertymark
Regional rent disparities across the UK have become more pronounced, with some areas experiencing significant increases while others face declines. Recent data from Propertymark highlights these divergent trends in rental prices and the corresponding salary requirements to secure average-priced homes as of April 2026. Significant Rent Increases in Scotland, Northern Ireland and London Scotland saw […]
Rental market shrinks despite government claims private rented sector is expanding
Recent analysis reveals a contraction in the private rented sector (PRS) supply, contradicting government claims of expansion. Despite official statements highlighting growth, data shows a significant fall in rental property availability, particularly in London. Declining Rental Supply in London Research conducted by Savills for The Telegraph indicates that the number of homes available to rent […]
TLA - The Landlord Association