Older landlords are driving the contraction of the rental market
A distinct trend is emerging within the private rented sector, driven primarily by experienced landlords rather than newcomers. Long-established investors, many of whom have navigated multiple market cycles and refined their portfolios over time, are now choosing to reduce their exposure to the rental market. Experienced Landlords Leading Market Contraction This shift is significant because […]
Landlords exit market as regulatory pressures rise
New data reveals a significant rise in landlords selling their buy-to-let properties amid growing regulatory pressures. Nearly 700 previously rented homes were listed for sale each day over the past year, signalling a notable shift in the private rental market. Rising numbers of buy-to-let properties for sale Research conducted by Savills shows that 254,000 buy-to-let […]
UK rents climb again in April
UK rental prices continued their upward trend in April, with average rents rising for the second consecutive month. According to the latest HomeLet index, tenants across the UK are now paying an average of £1,325 per month, reflecting steady growth amid ongoing demand and supply constraints. National rent increases The average rent in April was […]
Government’s Right to Rent consultation draws CIH criticism
The government’s recent consultation on tightening Right to Rent (RtR) checks has drawn criticism from the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), which argues that the proposed revisions fail to address the fundamental issues within the policy. While the updated code of practice is welcomed, the CIH highlights ongoing concerns about discrimination against migrants and non-White […]
Upgrading energy efficiency under the Renters’ Rights Act poses new challenges
The introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act has created new obstacles for landlords aiming to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has highlighted concerns over how these legal changes might complicate compliance with upcoming energy performance requirements. Challenges posed by the Renters’ Rights Act Previously, landlords could wait […]
All You Need to Know About Gas Safety Checks and Certificates
Gas safety checks and certificates remain a vital responsibility for landlords across the UK, ensuring the safety of tenants and compliance with legal obligations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of gas safety requirements, including the process, costs, and consequences of non-compliance. Understanding Gas Safety Checks and Certificates Landlords with properties containing gas appliances such […]
EPC ratings drive rental values as industry body urges realistic targets
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings are increasingly influencing rental values across the UK’s private rented sector (PRS), with more energy-efficient properties commanding higher rents. However, industry experts caution that the government’s EPC improvement targets must be realistic and supported by adequate funding to avoid unintended consequences for landlords and tenants alike. Rising EPC Ratings in […]
Six ways the Renters Rights Act will change renting: Part 6, Database and Ombudsman
The Renters Rights Act introduces significant reforms to the rental sector, with two key measures—the Landlords Database and the Landlord Ombudsman scheme—set to be implemented in stages later this year and beyond. These initiatives aim to enhance transparency, enforcement, and dispute resolution within the private rented sector. The Landlords Database The Landlords Database is expected […]
How to Vet Tenants with Pre-Viewing Questions
Finding reliable tenants is a crucial step in managing rental properties effectively. Pre-viewing questions offer landlords and agents a practical way to screen prospective tenants early in the process, helping to identify those who are most suitable before arranging viewings. Using Pre-Viewing Questions to Vet Tenants Pre-viewing questions provide valuable context about applicants’ circumstances, enabling […]
BTL lenders widen specialist mortgage choice
Specialist buy-to-let (BTL) lenders are broadening their mortgage offerings, providing landlords with more fixed-rate options tailored to a variety of property types and borrower profiles. This expansion reflects the growing complexity and diversity within the landlord market, particularly for those refinancing properties such as HMOs, multi-unit freehold blocks, holiday lets, and for expat borrowers. Foundation […]
TLA - The Landlord Association